FRE 255 - (Im)migration in French and Francophone Film (1)

This course addresses immigration through the lenses of cultural and film studies by examining portrayals of migration in French-language films primarily from France. Although population movements have always been a fact of life in France, shifts in demographics as well as in French political ties to sending countries have resulted in changing attitudes and policies towards (im)migrants and their families. French understandings of immigration are different from their American counterparts due to political, social, and historical contexts; this means that related questions-such as race and national belonging-are differently defined, constructed, and understood. France’s long colonial history plays no small part in continuing conversations on matters of immigration, and impacts debates over what it means to be “French” and who can be “French” that have resulted in protest and legislation. In this course, attention will be paid to intersections of class, gender, and race with immigration. Readings will buttress students’ understanding of historical and social contexts as well as contribute to comprehension of some critical race theory. We will look at the framing of issues of identity and inclusion in a French context and learn about the broad outlines of migratory patterns in France. This course is taught in English and can be counted for GSS or certain IR elective credits. Offered every third year. Prerequisite: Any First-Year Writing (W) course
(Humanities)