TAUGHT AT MILLS COLLEGE CAMPUS

Communication interculturelle: les rites, mythes, tabous et vaches
sacrees des Francais / Intercultural Communication : French Rituals, Myths, Taboos and Sacred Cows


This class explores the following questions: How was French identity created? What is the French worldview on a number of key political, economic and social issues? How does one negotiate with the French? How does one account for French anti-Americanism, old and new? This course examines the historical, economic, social and cultural forces that shape/d contemporary French identity and looks into numerous comparisons with the United States, for instance comparing the role of the state/government, attitude toward capitalism, the role of religion, gender relations, the concepts of pleasure and big C- Culture, etc. Students will read texts, answer questions and share their ideas and interpretation in class. We will also watch videos and significant film clips. Students will write several short essays (with multiple drafts to improve their written French and grammar).

No book purchase required. Instruction will provide reader + webography