Introduction to the Francophone World

The course provides an introduction to Francophone culture and literature, while strengthening students’ knowledge of French grammar and improving their writing skills. Given that it would be impossible to study all the countries that have been under French influence, we have made a preliminary selection of countries in order to have an overview of the situation. Key words will guide our journey through the Francophone world: colonization, language, identity, colonialism, intercultural relations. The relation between the Francophone countries and France today is the result of a historical process that marked the French as well as the indigenous people. It is therefore necessary to study certain aspects of the history to better understand and grasp the concept "Francophonie", a term that is difficult to define, ambiguous, complex but rich in meanings. The study of literary works, films and other documents will help student to better understand the differences and similarities that exist in the Francophone world. Finally, students will be able to assess the role played by the French language in the quest for national and personal identity. This class will demand a lot of reading and there will be group discussions daily. The student must come to the class prepared in order to be able to participate actively in the group discussions.

Priority will be given to two main skills, reading comprehension and writing.

Required texts: Mariama BÂ, Une si longue lettre. ISBN : 978-2842612894