Fall 2025 Upper-Level Course Descriptions

FRH 216: Literature and Culture: “Care”

MWF 10-10:50 / Prof. Tarte / Prerequisite: FRH 212, 213, or 214

Together we will explore how writers and other artists engage with contemporary issues such as illness and disability, the refugee crisis, structural racism, and the threat to bodily autonomy. The concept of care – in French, “le care” – and the framework of care ethics will guide our exploration. What strategies do French-language authors use to write empathy and care? What can their works tell us about the role of the individual in society and the responsibility of individuals and communities towards others? To answer these questions, we will look at care in the medical context, but we will also consider care more broadly – of the self and of society, especially its most vulnerable members. Topics will include eating disorders, severe illness and handicap, abortion, and incarceration; studying the ethics of care, we will also prioritize care for one another as we confront these difficult subjects. In addition to fictional and autobiographical texts, our exploration may include bande dessinée and documentary film. To contextualize these works, we will consult media such as newspapers, television, and podcasts. The speaking, reading, and writing skills you develop in this course will prepare you for more advanced classes in the department.

*Did you know? You can repeat FRH 216 once for credit when topics vary.

FRH 315: Introduction to French and Francophone Studies

MWF 12-12:50 / Prof. Coly / Prerequisite: FRH 200-level course or equivalent

This course will orient you to the culture and society of France and the French-speaking world from the Gallo-Roman era to the twenty-first century. You will gain an understanding of how French and Francophone identities have developed by examining historical events and their commemoration, remarkable people, and lasting institutions. You will also analyze how artistic and cultural movements represent changes to perspectives and values. This course will improve your capacity to read and interpret primary source texts; develop your ability to place key events, people, and ideas in their larger historical context; and augment your intercultural competence.

*Did you know? FRH 315 is not recommended for students who plan to participate in the WFU Dijon semester program. WFU Dijon students receive credit for this course.

**Please note: FRH 315 is offered only once each academic year, in the fall semester.

FRH 320: French Conversation

MW 2-3:15 / Prof. Schroth / Prerequisite: FRH 200-level course or equivalent

This conversation course is designed to develop your ability to engage in thoughtful, nuanced discussions on contemporary issues, cultural debates, and a variety of real-world texts and materials from around the French-speaking world. You will work towards developing specific strategies for conversation on everyday topics, and you will practice presenting and defending a point of view. You will also expand your vocabulary, sharpen your argumentation skills, and develop confidence in both spontaneous and structured speech. Come ready to speak, exchange ideas, and express yourself with precision and style! This is an ideal course for students who have just completed the WFU basic language requirement and/or intend to study abroad in a French-speaking country later in their college career.

*Did you know? FRH 320 is designed exclusively for second-language learners. French native and heritage speakers may not take this course. If you have spent extended time in a French-speaking country (during study abroad, for example), please contact Professor Schroth to determine if the course is suitable for you.

FRH 370: Seminar in French Studies

MWF 1-1:50 / Prof. Murphy / Prerequisite: FRH 216, 315 or POR

Écriture de soi et autofiction : D’où vient le moi? Where does the Self come from?

The genres of autobiography, memoir, and autofiction are often thought of as centered on introspection. In this seminar we will take a different tack. In several recent works by French and Francophone writers, we will explore how they portray socio-economic class, including the postcolonial situation, as what helps to form the self. Writers studied may include Annie Ernaux, Patrick Chamoiseau, Didier Éribon, Pierre Michon, and others. Students will participate actively in a collaborative setting, will make oral presentations and pursue individual research projects.

*Did you know? You can repeat FRH 370 once for credit when topics vary.