FFS 332 - Literature and Society in Pre-Revolutionary France

Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)

Topic for 2019/20a: Guilty as Charged? Crime and Punishment in Early Modern France. What constituted a crime under French law from the Middle Ages to the Revolution, and why does it still matter today? Who determined guilt, how did the accused defend themselves against false charges, and what kinds of punishments were inflicted? This seminar on criminal behavior, prejudice, and the struggle for human rights examines from a modern perspective six of the most famous courtroom battles in history. It provides a look into the lives of heretics and rebels, enemies of the state, and hapless individuals caught up in the machinery of government. Students delve into original court documents, literary texts and film adaptations, and assess how contemporary scholars, directors, and politicians have continued to exploit these celebrated cases. Case studies include Joan of Arc, Voltaire, Louis XVI, and Marie Antoinette. Cynthia Kerr.

One 2-hour period.

Course Format: CLS