French literature: between artistic creation and novelistic analysis

Teacher(s)

Engel Vincent;

Language

French

Main themes

In-depth analysis of one or more narrative works (novels, short stories, but also films, etc.), in particular by comparing the interpretations proposed by specialists in these works. This analysis enables us to situate the text in the historical, social and cultural context in which it was created; to identify operational tools for analysing the novel genre; measure the value and limits of the different methods and theoretical orientations used.
The study of adaptations of literary works for film or theatre will enable to focus on narrative issues and techniques specific to each type of adaptation.
In this context, the original language of the adapted text or adaptation may be other than French.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :
1	Produce a relevant, enlightening and well-argued analysis of a novel and its adaptation;
2	Situate it stylistically, aesthetically, historically and culturally;
3	Measure the interaction between the methodological tools chosen and the results obtained
This learning unit contributes to the development and command of the following skills and learning outcomes of the ELAL programmes: 1.5, 1.6., 2.6., 4.3.

Content

The course will begin with a reminder of the different approaches to literary criticism adapted to narrative prose. Then we will look at the main principles of narrative structure. 
Several texts will be analysed in depth, according to a programme announced at the beginning of the year. 
This corpus will include at least one French-language novel, written between 1800 and the present day; one short story; one film or stage adaptation of a novel or short story. 

Teaching methods

Lectures

Evaluation methods

Collective and/or individual work, which can be presented to the group.

Faculty or entity

> ELAL