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Contemporary Literature in French (Level 5)

Classes

There are no classes currently available for registration.

Overview

What is happening in French and Francophone literature right now? Who are the most interesting and innovative novelists of the twenty-first century? In this Contemporary Literature in French short course we will be looking at the works of some of the most striking contemporary literary figures and discuss them in their cultural and theoretical contexts, as well as through the lens of literary history. You will be able to make comparisons with current literary developments in other languages, and you will gain an insight into what is happening today in French-language literary culture.

This course is taught in English and assessed in English or French. The following primary texts may be read in French or in English translation:

  • Annie Ernaux, Mémoire de fille (2016) (translated as: A Girl’s Story)
  • Michaël Ferrier, Scrabble: une enfance tchadienne (2019) (translated as: Scrabble: A Chadian Childhood)
  • Sorj Chalandon, Retour à Killybegs (2011) (translated as: Return to Killybegs)
  • Michel Houellebecq, Soumission (2015) (translated as: Submission)
  • Maylis de Kerangal, Tangente vers l'est (2012) (translated as: Eastbound)
  • Nina Bouraoui, Tous les hommes désirent naturellement savoir (2018) (translated as: All Men Want to Know)
  • Leïla Slimani, Le parfum des fleurs la nuit (2021) (translated as: The Scent of Flowers at Night)

Assessment is via two 2500-word essays (50% each).

30 credits at level 5

  • Entry requirements

    Entry requirements

    Most of our short courses have no formal entry requirements and are open to all students.

    This short course has no prerequisites.

    As part of the enrolment process, you may be required to submit a copy of a suitable form of ID.

    International students who wish to come to the UK to study a short course can apply for a Visitor visa. Please note that it is not possible to obtain a Student visa to study a short course.

  • How to apply

    How to apply

    You register directly onto the classes you would like to take. Classes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis - so apply early. If you wish to take more than one short course, you can select each one separately and then register onto them together via our online application portal. There is usually no formal selection process, although some modules may have prerequisites and/or other requirements, which will be specified where relevant.