Middlebury

FREN 0302

Gender & Sex in French Past

Gender & Sexuality in Medieval French Literature
How did medieval French literature debate issues of gender and sexuality? How do cultural artifacts like books and illuminations shape ideas about “normative” or “non-normative” gender expression and sexual behavior? We will read chivalric romances, songs, and letters that introduce us to the history of gender and sexuality. Seminar discussions will focus on themes like femininity and masculinity; reproduction, same-sex relationships, and marriage; non-binary gender. We will read and respond to modern scholarship on medieval French literature to bring our own voices into past and present conversations. We will be introduced to medieval French literature, learn how to engage with academic scholarship, and frame research questions and projects in French. No prior knowledge of medieval French necessary.
Subject:
French
Department:
French
Division:
Languages
Requirements Fulfilled:
EUR LIT LNG
Equivalent Courses:

Sections

Spring 2025

FREN0302A-S25 Seminar (Banks)