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 review of the various approaches to literary criticism as applied to narrative prose. We will then examine the key principles of narrative structure.  
Several texts will then be analysed in depth, following a syllabus to be announced at the start of the academic year. This corpus will include at least one French-language novel, written between 1800 and the present day; a short story; and a film or theatre adaptation of a novel or short story. 
In addition to this course, students are expected to attend the ‘LittératUrgence’ Chair session at UCLouvain, organised by Pen Belgique francophone and the five French-speaking universities. This session will take place in the second term. Students are also invited to attend the four other sessions, which will take place at the four other universities. The full programme will be available in September on the Pen Belgique website: www.penbelgique.be

Teaching methods

Lectures

Evaluation methods

Group and/or individual work, which may be presented to the group.
The final mark will be the average of the work completed for the seminar organised by Ms Justine Muller and the work for the lecture. Pass marks for both pieces of work are required to pass the course. If a student fails one of the two pieces of work, they must resubmit it; the mark for the successfully completed piece of work will be retained.

Faculty or entity

> ELAL