FRE445H5 Topic Course: The War Novel in French 20th and 21st-Century Literature

Learn more about the War Novel in French 20th and 21st literature in FRE445H5S!

This course explores approaches to the war novel in French literature from the 20th and 21st centuries. French novels take a critical approach to war, more than a celebratory one, especially when dealing with the tragic experience of civilians. They also combine national heroism and personal trauma to present a complex picture of the actual experience of soldiers in battle and resistants and spies facing moral dilemmas. Original novel forms are developed, deploying symbolism, social satire, irony, detective storylines, and unique blends of suspenseful fiction and documentary. Students will apply previous knowledge in literature, and their oral and written competences in French to the study of representative novels dealing with the experience of war and its aftermath, ranging from testimonial to fictional accounts. Particular emphasis will be placed on extending attentive reading skills as ways of reflecting on storytelling and its relationship to critical commentary, the creative power of language, and empathy.

This course will be taught by Prof. Pascal Michelucci, and meets on Tuesdays 12pm–3pm.