French and Francophone Studies 305: Paris dans tous ses états

Paris—political capital of France, cultural capital of the western world—has been both a monument and a magnet for authors, artists, musicians, and philosophers for over 400 years. Through the combined lens of literature, history, and urban geography, we will explore the invention of consumerism in the 17th century, the architectural and industrial modernization of the city in the 19th century, and the colonial exhibitions of the early 20th century. We will examine the shifting physical and cultural landscape of the modern city, examining both the monumental cultural projects of François Mitterrand's presidency and the marginalization of the banlieue. Coursework includes short papers, class presentations, and a final project. Three course meetings per week plus one half-hour conversation session with a French Language Assistant. Conducted in French.