The principal aims of the Department of Foreign Languages
and Literatures are to develop in the student an ability to
understand, speak, and write the languages of his or her choice,
and to read with appreciation literary and cultural texts
in the foreign languages. The study of a foreign language
enables students to understand a foreign culture and to broaden
perspectives on their own culture.
The department is the primary resource for the college's language
requirement. Any course taken at the appropriate level in
a foreign language, i.e., not in translation, fulfills the
foreign literature and language requirement.
Advanced literature courses provide students with the skills
needed to interpret texts linguistically, stylistically, and
historically and enable them to gain knowledge of major periods,
authors, and genres of literature. Courses in culture and
civilization explore major achievements in art, history, politics,
economics, media, and intellectual history as well as issues
of gender and race. Advanced language courses provide practical
skills for specific purposes such as translation, business,
and other professional applications.
Students should refer to the guidelines below for placement
into language courses according to the Web-based placement
exam and the SAT II language exams. Students with a minimum
of one year of prior language study are excluded from taking
a 101 course. Students with a score of 3 on an A.P. test should
enroll in courses above the 203 level, usually a composition
or conversation course.
Students can take the Web-based placement exam at any time.
Entering students will receive information on accessing the
exam in a summer mailing and can also contact the department
for information. For placement into languages other than French,
German, and Spanish, contact the appropriate faculty in the
Departments of Foreign Languages and Literatures or Classics.
WebCAPE Placement
Exams for French, German, and Spanish: 0–339: French and Spanish 102, German 102 or 103
340–390: French, German, and
Spanish 203
391 and above: French, German, and
Spanish courses above the 203 level
SAT II
Foreign Language Exams: 0–490: French and Spanish 102, German and Italian 102
or 103
500–560: Chinese, French, German,
Italian, Japanese, and Spanish 203
570 and above: Chinese, French, German,
Italian, Japanese, and Spanish courses above the 203 level
Students with scores on an
A.P. test of 4 or 5 may receive general elective credit toward
graduation.
The department supports academic and extracurricular programs
both on the campus and abroad in order to enhance understanding
of foreign languages and cultures. Department faculty are
key advisors in such self-determined majors as Italian, and
they are committed to participating in such college interdisciplinary
programs as Liberal Studies, Asian Studies, International
Affairs, Classics, and Women's Studies. The department is
committed to offering less commonly taught languages through
the self-instructional language program.
Since the department offers a rotation of advanced courses
in French, German, and Spanish, students desiring a major
in one of these languages should begin as sophomores to plan
their programs for their junior and senior years.
Students majoring in the department
are expected to acquire fluency and accuracy in one or more
of the modern languages; a general knowledge of the civilization
and culture that the language expresses; an ability to interpret
texts linguistically, stylistically, and historically; and
an intensive knowledge of certain, defined periods of literature.
THE FRENCH MAJOR: Students majoring
in French fulfill the departmental requirements by completing
a minimum of nine courses totaling not less than thirty credit
hours, including FF208
and 209
or 210;
one course covering material prior to 1800 from among FF213,
214,
216,
224;
one course covering material after 1800 from FF219,
221,
223;
Senior Seminar, FF376; two additional French courses
above FF206; and two additional French courses at the 300
level.
THE GERMAN MAJOR: Students majoring in German fulfill the
departmental requirements by completing a minimum of nine
courses totaling not less than thirty credit hours, including
FG208
and 215;
FG376;
six additional courses above FG203
(one course may be designated FL or LS).
THE SPANISH MAJOR: Students majoring in Spanish fulfill the
departmental requirements by completing a minimum of nine
courses totaling not less than thirty credit hours, none in
translation, including FS208,
211,
and 212;
at least one course from among FS313,
314,
317,
334;
at least one course from among FS319,
320,
321,
330;
FS376;
and three additional courses above FS203.
FRENCH AREA STUDIES PROGRAM: Students may elect a program
designed to incorporate several aspects of French culture
in order to develop in-depth knowledge of the country and
civilization. Each student will work out an individual nine-course
program totaling not less than thirty credit hours, as approved
by the department, that includes three courses from among
FF213,
214,
216,
219,
221,
223,
224;
three courses on French topics from other departments; and
three 300-level courses including FF374
or 376.
Students in this program may elect a concentration in a particular
period or a particular topic, for example: France in the nineteenth
century, the status of women, the role of money, or the tradition
of revolution in France.
INTERDEPARTMENTAL MAJORS: In conjunction with the relevant
departments, the Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures
offers majors in business-French, business-German, business-Spanish;
economics-French, economics-German, economics-Spanish; English-French,
English-German, English-Spanish; government-French, government-German,
and government-Spanish. See Interdepartmental
Majors.
HONORS: To be eligible for departmental honors, a student
must write a thesis in the foreign language and pass an oral
defense of the thesis, complete courses 374 in German and
Spanish and 373 and 374 in French with a grade of A- or better,
and have at least a 3.5 average in the major. Outstanding
students of French are also eligible for nomination to the Nu Iota chapter of Pi Delta Phi,
the national French honor society. Outstanding
students of Spanish are eligible for nomination to Sigma
Delta Pi, the national Spanish honor society.
THE FRENCH MINOR: The minor program consists of a minimum
of five courses
above
FF203
totaling not less than eighteen credit hours, including
FF208
and 209
or 210;
one course covering material prior to 1800 from among
FF213,
214,
216, or
224;
one course covering material from after 1800 from
FF219,
221,
or 223;
and one course at the 300 level in French language, literature,
or civilization. At least three of the courses must be taken
at Skidmore.
THE GERMAN MINOR: The minor program consists of a minimum
of five courses totaling not less than eighteen credit hours, including
FG208
and 215;
three other courses beyond
FG203
in German language, literature, or civilization (one course
may be designated FL or LS). At least three of the courses
must be taken at Skidmore.
THE ITALIAN MINOR: The minor program consists of a minimum
of five courses totaling not less than eighteen credit hours, including
FI208
and FI310;
a minimum of eleven more credit hours beyond
FI203
in Italian language, literature, or civilization (one course
may be designated FL or LS). At least three of the courses
must be taken at Skidmore.
THE SPANISH MINOR: The minor program consists of a minimum
of five courses above
FS203
totaling not less than eighteen credit hours, none in translation, including
FS208,
211, and
212.
At least three of the courses must be taken at Skidmore.
CLASSICAL LANGUAGES: Instruction in classical Greek and Latin
is offered through the advanced level. For the course listings
and requirements for the classics major and minor, see Classics.
SELF-INSTRUCTIONAL
LANGUAGES: Instruction in Arabic, Hebrew, Hindi, Korean, Portuguese,
and Russian is offered on an independent study basis. The
student works with textbooks and tapes and meets with a native
tutor for two hours a week of oral practice. A final examination
is given by an outside examiner approved by the National Association
of Self-Instructional Language Programs from a neighboring
university. Students interested in pursuing these courses
should consult with Professor Faustini in the Department of
Foreign Languages and Literatures before spring registration
for the following academic year.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
RESOURCE CENTER:
The FLRC accommodates a twenty-station Mac lab/multimedia classroom
(Bolton 380) providing access to electronic materials developed by
Skidmore faculty, commercially produced language software, foreign
language word processing programs, as well as access to the Internet.
The multimedia classroom is equipped with multi-region DVD and VCR
players with large screen projection. The student stations also include
traditional language lab cassette recorders with headsets for intensive
language practice. In addition to the Bolton 380 classroom, the Foreign
Language Resource Center (Bolton 381) has four open stations with audio
equipment and computers for use by students on a drop-in basis. The
Bolton 381 area also offers a lounge area for viewing foreign videos
(VHS and DVD) and TV from foreign stations received by satellite. A
center work area houses the audio collection, software, textbooks, laser
printer, student assistants’ workstation, TV-VCR, multistandard VCR, and
a high-speed cassette dubber. There is also a workroom for the
production of multimedia materials, equipped with computers, a scanner,
TV-VCR, mini-dv camcorders, and hardware and software to support
digitizing and editing video and audio materials.
PARIS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXAMINATIONS: The department encourages
qualified students of economics and business to take the Certificat
Pratique de Français Commercial et Economique or the
Diplôme Supérieur de Français des Affaires
offered by the Chambre de Commerce et d'Industrie de Paris.
Both the Certificat and the Diplôme attest to students'
knowledge of business French and to their ability to express
themselves orally and in writing. The department gives these
Paris Chamber of Commerce examinations annually.
GERMAN FOR BUSINESS CERTIFICATION: The department encourages
qualified students of economics and business to take the Zertifikat
Deutsch für den Beruf (ZDfB). This examination, jointly
developed by the Goethe Institute and the Deutscher
Volkshochschulverband, attests to students' knowledge of business German
and their ability to express themselves orally and in writing.
The department administers the ZDfB examination annually.
PROGRAMS ABROAD: The department encourages qualified students
to participate in Skidmore's programs in Paris or Madrid and
to take advantage of accredited programs in Germany, Italy,
and Spanish America.
Courses offered in English are designated FL.
CHINESE
FC 101. ELEMENTARY
CHINESE I 4 An introduction to spoken and
written Chinese emphasizing cultural perspectives. Linguistic
emphasis is on basic grammar, vocabulary, and the development
of reading, conversation, and writing skills while learning
about the culture of China. Four hours of class, one hour
of drill or tutorial. Presupposes no previous study of Chinese. M.
Chen FC 102. ELEMENTARY
CHINESE II 3 Continuation of FC101. Further
development of basic grammar, reading, conversation, and writing
skills while focusing on cultural materials from China. Three
hours of class, one hour of drill or tutorial. M.
Chen FC 203. INTERMEDIATE
CHINESE 3 Continuing study of the structures
of the Chinese language. Extensive practice in conversation
and writing. Vocabulary building through the reading of appropriate
texts in the literature and culture. Three hours of class
and one hour of lab. Prerequisite:FC102
or permission of the department. M.
Chen FC 204. BUSINESS
CHINESE 3 Intermediate
Chinese language and culture with an emphasis on listening,
speaking, reading, writing, and translating in the context
of business. Designed for students who are interested in doing
business with the Chinese-speaking community and in further
improving their Chinese language proficiency. Students will
develop cultural competence in the contexts of actual business
situations, and will learn commonly used commercial terms,
phrases, sentence patterns, and cultural background. Prerequisite:FC203
or permission of the department. M. Chen FC 206. CHINESE
LANGUAGE AND CULTURE 3 Development of Chinese skills
at the advanced intermediate level. Extensive practice in
idioms. Development of vocabulary and reading skills necessary
for communication at native speed. Texts include contemporary
news materials, film, Internet sources, literature, and music.
Prerequisite:FC203
or permission of the department. (Designated a non-Western
culture course.) M. Chen FC 208. ADVANCED
CHINESE CONVERSATION AND COMPOSITION 3 Intensive practice in daily use
of Chinese in a cultural context. Review of grammar, idioms,
vocabulary, and writing skills. Prerequisite:FC203
or permission of the instructor. M.
Chen FC 220. LANGUAGE
ACROSS THE CURRICULUM 1 A course designed for students
who want to use their foreign language skills in any course
taught in English at the college. Does not fulfill the foreign
language distribution requirement or count toward the major
or minor in foreign languages and literature. Can be repeated
for credit. Prerequisite: FC203
or permission of the department. The
Department FC 271, 272. CHINESE
LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE DISCUSSION 1 A discussion group about an author,
a period, a genre, a topic, a translation, or a research project
in conjunction with another course. Can be repeated for credit.
Prerequisite:FC208
or permission of the department. M.
Chen FC 363. SPECIAL
STUDIES IN CHINESE 4 Advanced literary or critical
study in an author, a genre, a period, or a topic. Texts may
include literature, newspaper articles, television dramas,
films, poetry, painting, and music. Prerequisite: permission
of instructor. (Designated a non-Western culture course.)
Course must enroll at least five students to be offered. M.
Chen FC 371, 372. INDEPENDENT
STUDY 3 Individual study projects under
the guidance of the department. M.
Chen
FRENCH
Courses in Language FF 101. ELEMENTARY
FRENCH I 4
An introduction to spoken and written French emphasizing cultural
perspectives. Linguistic emphasis is on basic grammar, vocabulary, and
the development of reading, conversation, and writing skills while
learning about the cultures of France and the Francophone world. Four
hours of class, one hour of drill or tutorial. Presupposes no previous
study of French. The Department FF 102. ELEMENTARY
FRENCH II 3 Continuation of FF 101. Further development of basic grammar, reading,
conversation, and writing skills while focusing on cultural materials
from France and the Francophone World. Three hours of class. The Department FF 203. INTENSIVE
INTERMEDIATE FRENCH 4 Continuing intensive study of the structures of the French
language. Extensive practice in conversation and writing.
Vocabulary building through the reading of appropriate texts
in the literature and culture. Four hours of class and one
hour of lab. The Department
FF 206. FRENCH CULTURAL CONVERSATIONS 3 Development of nonliterary, informal spoken vocabulary, and
expressions used in everyday situations. Extensive practice
in conversational idioms and work on accent and intonation.
Prerequisite: FF203 or two years of high-school French or equivalent
or permission of instructor. The Department
The following courses satisfy
major requirements. FF 208. WRITING IN FRENCH 4 Review of grammar, idioms, and vocabulary. Intensive practice
in writing short essays. Prerequisite:FF203
or 205
or permission of instructor. This course is required for the
major. The Department FF 209. INTRODUCTION
TO THE CULTURE AND LITERATURE OF QUEBEC 4 Study of the culture and literature
of Quebec within a historical framework. This course focuses
on the development of analytical skills through the study
of literary texts and cultural documents from the beginnings
of French Canadian society through the present. Prerequisite:
FF203
or permission of the instructor. FF208
strongly recommended. This course alternates with FF210 as
a requirement for the major in French. (Fulfills humanities
requirement.) C. Evans FF 210. INTRODUCTION
TO FRENCH LITERATURE 4 Reading and discussion of literary texts in the major genres: poetry,
theater, and prose through close textual analysis. This course
emphasizes the development of the analytical skills involved
in doing a close reading and the critical skill needed for
writing explications de texte. Regular papers required.
Prerequisite: FF203
or permission of the instructor. This course is required for
the major in French. (Fulfills humanities requirement.) The Department FF 220. LANGUAGE
ACROSS THE CURRICULUM 1 A course designed for students
who want to use their foreign language skills in any course
taught in English at the college. Does not fulfill the foreign language distribution requirement or count toward the major or minor in foreign languages and literature. Can be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: FF203. The Department FF 301. BUSINESS
FRENCH 3 Study of communication and cultural
understanding in commercial transactions of everyday French
life. The course covers such topics as real estate, management,
advertising, marketing, insurance, personnel relations, banking,
imports and exports, and doing business in France. These topics
will be considered in the context of the geography of France,
its agriculture and industrial production, its trade, transportation
and taxation systems. Students will be encouraged to take
the Paris Chamber of Commerce exam at the end of the semester.
Required for business-French major. Prerequisite: FF208
or permission of instructor. M. Wiesmann FF 304. ADVANCED
CONVERSATION AND PRONUNCIATION 3
Development of oral and written skills to increase active vocabulary,
fluency, and the use of authentic French structures
through reading and discussion of issues in contemporary French
society. Topics include immigration, unemployment, gender distinctions,
changing family patterns, education, and political parties
in the "hexagon." Some attention to the influence of the European
community on French life. H. Jaouad FF 306. TRANSLATION
AND STYLISTICS 3 A translation course for the study of the structure of the
French language through comparative examination of vocabulary,
grammar, and cultural influences. The course provides extensive
practice of the traditional exercise of thème et
version (translations back and forth of texts from a variety
of disciplines) to develop an awareness of the idiomatic distinctions
of French and English, the variety of written styles and what
constitutes one's own prose expression. Prerequisite:FF208
or consent of instructor. J. Anzalone
Courses in Literature and Civilization
FF 213. MEDIEVAL
AND RENAISSANCE FRENCH LITERATURE 4 A survey of medieval and Renaissance French literature focusing
on the origins and development of epic and lyric poetry, theater,
and prose, including the essai. Readings will include
such works and authors as La Chanson de Roland, Chrétien
de Troyes, Marie de France, Christine de Pisan, Villon, La
Farce de Maître Pathelin,Le Roman de la Rose,
Marguerite de Navarre, Ronsard, Du Bellay, Louise Labé,
Rabelais, and Montaigne. Prerequisite:FF210
or permission of the instructor. Offered in alternate years.
(Fulfills humanities requirement.) M. Wiesmann FF 214. FRENCH
LITERATURE OF THE SEVENTEENTH CENTURY 4 Introduction to the concepts of classic and baroque, including
social, artistic, and intellectual developments in the seventeenth
century through study of the masterpieces of such authors
as Corneille, Racine, Moliere, Pascal, Descartes, Mme. de
Sévigné, La Fontaine, La Rochefoucauld, and
Mme. de Lafayette. Prerequisite:FF210
or permission of instructor. (Fulfills humanities requirement.) A. Zuerner
FF 216. FRENCH LITERATURE OF THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY 4 Study of the social, intellectual and artistic development
of the Enlightenment in the works of such authors as Montesquieu,
Mme. de Graffigny, Voltaire, Rousseau, Diderot, Lesage, Marivaux,
Beaumarchais, Mme. Roland, and Olympe de Gouges. Spring semester.
Prerequisite: FF210
or permission of instructor. (Fulfills humanities requirement.) M. Wiesmann or A. Zuerner FF 219. LITERATURE
AND CULTURE OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 4 Introduction to the social, intellectual, and artistic developments
of the nineteenth century through study of the literary masterpieces
of such poets, playwrights, and novelists as Chateaubriand,
Mme. de Staël, Lamartine, Hugo, Vigny, Balzac, Sand,
Baudelaire, Flaubert, Zola, Rimbaud, and Mallarmé.
Fall semester. Prerequisite:FF210
or permission of instructor. (Fulfills humanities requirement.) J. Anzalone or P. Han FF 221. TWENTIETH-CENTURY
LITERATURE 4 Introduction to the poetry, novels and plays of France through
study of the works of such writers as Gide, Apollinaire, Proust,
Cocteau, Mauriac, de Beauvoir, Sartre, Beckett, Aragon, Duras,
Sarraute, and Robbe-Grillet. The course will also focus on
contemporary artistic, social, and intellectual trends since
1890. Spring semester. Prerequisite:FF210
or permission of instructor. (Fulfills humanities requirement.) H. Jaouad FF 223. INTRODUCTION
TO ISSUES IN THE FRANCOPHONE WORLD 4 Study of aspects of the Francophone world (Caribbean, Africa,
Canada) with particular emphasis on historical, political,
and social problems. Reading and discussion of texts and documents
from a variety of sources. Practice in writing critical and
literary essays. Prerequisite: FF210
or permission of instructor. (Designated a non-Western culture
course.) H. Jaouad FF 224. FRENCH
CIVILIZATION FROM GAUL TO 1815 4 French culture and civilization from the Gallo-Roman period
to the 1789 revolution and its immediate aftermath. This course
will trace the succession of broad political and societal
phenomena defined by traditional historians, employing a spectrum
of documents representative of social, gender and religious
diversity. These documents will draw equally from music, painting,
science, philosophy, and literature. Through a series of films
we will question the interplay between "history"
and its representations. (Fulfills humanities requirement.) M. Wiesmann FF 225. PAINTERS AND WRITERS 4 A survey of the rich interaction that exists in French culture between writers and visual artists, mostly painters, from the Renaissance through the twentieth century. Since the sixteenth century, French writers have reflected upon the practices and productions of painters. In a multiplicity of literary genres (poems, short stories, novels, essays), they have left a body of work that theoretically uses the visual artist's craft as a means to explore the singularities of their own literary practices. Using this thematic thread that familiarizes students with different modes of French thought, culture, and writing, this course develops students' analytical skills in the reading of literary texts while exposing them to major figures of French painting. Prerequisites:FF208
and FF210.
(Fulfills humanities requirement.) M. Wiesmann FF 263. SPECIAL TOPICS IN FRENCH 3
Literary or cultural study at an introductory to intermediate level of an
author, a genre, a period, or a topic. Topics will vary from semester to
semester. Prerequisites:FF208 or
FF210
or permission of the department. The
Department FF 271, 272. FRENCH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE DISCUSSION 1 A discussion group about an author,
a period, a genre, a topic, a translation, or a research project
in conjunction with another course. Can be repeated for credit.
Prerequisite:FF208
or permission of the department. The
Department FF 316. FRENCH
POETRY 3 Study of fundamentals and development of the French poetic
form through close textual analysis of representative poets
and major movements. Prerequisite: FF214
or 216,
219
or 221
or consent of instructor. Offered in alternate years. J. Anzalone FF 317. FRENCH
NARRATIVE PROSE 3 Exploration of major themes and techniques of narrative fiction
as it has developed in French-speaking cultures. Prerequisite:
FF214
or 216,
219
or 221
or consent of instructor. Offered in alternate years. M. Wiesmann FF 318. FRENCH
DRAMATIC LITERATURE 3 Study of dramatic techniques and themes through careful examination
of representative texts and attention to the role of the theater
in French culture. Prerequisite: FF214
or 216,
219
or 221
or consent of instructor. Offered alternate years. The Department FF 332. SURREALISM 3 Study of surrealism as an historical and ontological movement
through analysis of poetry, novel, cinema, theater, and painting.
The course examines the impact of surrealism on current literary,
critical, and artistic expressions. Prerequisite: FF210
or permission of the instructor. H.
Jaouad FF 363. SPECIAL
STUDIES IN FRENCH 3 Advanced literary or cultural study in an author, a genre,
a period, or a topic. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. The Department FF 371, 372. INDEPENDENT STUDY 3, 3 Individual study projects under the guidance of the department. The Department FF 373. PREPARATION
FOR SENIOR THESIS 3 Required for all second-semester junior or first-semester
senior French majors who intend to write a thesis (FF374).
Under the direction of a thesis advisor, the student reads
extensively in primary and secondary sources related to the
proposed thesis topic, develops research skills, and brings
the thesis topic into focus by writing an outline and a series
of brief papers that contribute to the thesis. Prerequisites:FF208,
210,
and second-semester junior or first-semester senior status. The Department FF 374. THESIS 3 An extended research project culminating in a paper based
on readings and extensive individual conferences. Required
of all majors who wish to be considered for departmental honors.
Prerequisite:FF376,
senior standing, permission of instructor, and 3.5 grade-point
average in the major. The Department FF 376. SEMINAR 3 A detailed study of an author, a period, or theme prominent
in France, Africa, Canada, or the French speaking countries
of the Caribbean. Frequent oral reports. Close attention to
development, organization, and writing of an extensive paper.
Prerequisite: Senior status. The Department
GERMAN
Courses in Language FG 101. ELEMENTARY
GERMAN I 4 An introduction to spoken and written German emphasizing cultural
perspectives. Linguistic emphasis is on basic grammar, vocabulary, and
the development of reading, conversation, and writing skills while
learning about the culture of German-speaking countries. Four hours of
class, one hour of drill or tutorial. Presupposes no previous study of
German. The Department FG 102. ELEMENTARY
GERMAN II 3
Continuation of FG 101. Further development of basic grammar, reading,
conversation, and writing skills while focusing on cultural materials
from German-speaking countries. Three hours of class, one hour of drill
or tutorial. The
Department FG 103. INTENSIVE
ELEMENTARY GERMAN 4 Intensive review of introductory reading, speaking, oral comprehension,
and grammatical structures of the language for those with
some experience in the fundamentals but who still need to
acquire the competency expected at the completion of FG102.
Four hours of class, one hour of lab. Prerequisite:
one year of high-school German or permission of department. The Department FG 203. INTERMEDIATE
GERMAN 3 Continuing study of the structures
of the German language. Extensive practice in conversation
and writing. Vocabulary building through the reading of appropriate
texts in the literature and culture. Three hours of class
and one hour of lab. Prerequisite: FG102
or 103. The Department FG 206. GERMAN
LANGUAGE AND CULTURE 3 Development of German skills
at the advanced intermediate level. Extensive practice in
idioms. Development of vocabulary and reading skills necessary
for communication at native speed. Texts include contemporary
news materials, film, Internet sources, literature, and music.
Prerequisite:FG203
or permission of the department. The
Department FG 208. GERMAN
CONVERSATION AND COMPOSITION 4 Intensive practice in daily use of German in a cultural context. Review of idioms, vocabulary, and writing
skills. Prerequisite:FG203
or permission of instructor. The Department FG 220. LANGUAGE
ACROSS THE CURRICULUM 1 A course designed for students
who want to use their foreign language skills in any course
taught in English at the college. Does not fulfill the foreign language distribution requirement,
but counts toward the major and minor in German. Can be repeated for credit. Prerequisite:FG203. The Department FG 263. SPECIAL TOPICS IN GERMAN 3
Literary or cultural study at an introductory to intermediate level of an
author, a genre, a period, or a topic. Topics will vary from semester to
semester. Prerequisite:FG208
or permission of instructor. The Department FG 271, 272. GERMAN LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE DISCUSSION 1 A discussion group about an author,
a period, a genre, a topic, a translation, or a research project
in conjunction with another course. Can be repeated for credit.
Prerequisite:FG208
or permission of the department. The
Department FG 301. BUSINESS
GERMAN 3 An introduction to business institutions in Germany. The course
focuses on economic geography, correspondence, and government requirements for business,
as well as vocabulary used in banking, advertising, stock
market, insurance, communications, and export and import.
Primarily for students majoring in German and business. The Department FG 304. ADVANCED GERMAN COMPOSITION AND CONVERSATION 4 Intensive practice of oral and written German to increase
active vocabulary and fluency in German and to develop further
and refine writing skills. Three hours of class. PrerequisiteFG208
or permission of instructor. M. O'Brien
Courses in Literature and Civilization
FG 215. INTRODUCTION
TO GERMAN LITERATURE 4 An introduction to the development of German literature from
the Age of Enlightenment to the present focusing on major
authors (Lessing, Goethe, Schiller, Hoffmann, Kafka, Brecht,
Wolf) and literary movements. Prerequisite:FG203
or permission of instructor. This course is required for the
major in German. Offered in alternate years. (Fulfills humanities
requirement.) M. O'Brien FG 216. CONTEMPORARY
GERMAN CULTURE 4 An exploration of life, art, and politics in Germany since
the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Topics include German
reunification, political parties and current debates, the
problematic relationship between Ossis and Wessis, multiculturalism,
the Berlin art scene, film, visual arts, and music. M. O'Brien FG 341. THE AGE
OF GOETHE 4 A study of the major works of Goethe,
Schiller, and Lessing to show how they reflect major intellectual
ideas of their time. Particular attention will be given to the
transition from the so-called Classical to the Romantic period:
the critique of the Classical by Romantic authors, the elevation
of music as the highest form of artistic expression, the origins
of psychology and "modernism" in the subjective irrationalism
of the Romantics. An examination of the artistic, intellectual,
and cultural trends of the period 1749-1832 through the study
of the works of Goethe, Schiller, and their contemporaries.
Prerequisite: FG215
or permission of instructor. M. O'Brien FG 343. THE GERMAN
NOVEL 3 An exploration of great German novels from Goethe to the present.
Students will encounter a variety of critical approaches for
the study of major texts from authors such as Goethe, Kafka,
Mann, Döblin, Böll, and Grass. M. O'Brien FG 356. THEATER
IN THE GERMAN- SPEAKING WORLD 3
Theater and its cultural impact in the nineteenth and twentieth
centuries. Topics include social drama, operatic spectacles,
epic theater, cabaret, post-war and contemporary experimental
theater and performance art. Works from such dramatists as
Büchner, Wagner, Brecht, Weiss, Handke, and Müller will
be examined. M. O'Brien FG 357. GERMAN
LITERATURE OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY 4 A critical study of German poetry, drama, and prose in the
twentieth century with emphasis on major artistic and sociopolitical
movements. Readings vary from year to year but usually include
works by Mann, Brecht, Sachs, Hesse, Böll, Grass, Bachmann,
and Wolf. Prerequisite: FG215
or permission of instructor. M. O'Brien FG 363. SPECIAL
STUDIES IN GERMAN 3 Advanced literary or cultural study in an author, a genre,
a period, or a topic. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. The Department FG 371, 372. INDEPENDENT STUDY 3, 3 Individual study projects under the guidance of the department. The Department FG 374. THESIS 3 An extended research project culminating in a paper based
on readings and extensive individual conferences. Required
of all majors who wish to be considered for departmental honors.
Prerequisite: FG376,
senior standing, permission of instructor, and 3.5 grade-point
average in the major. The Department FG 376. SEMINAR 4 The study of an author, a period, or topic prominent in the
literature of Germany, Austria, or Switzerland. Close attention
to the development, organization, and writing of an extensive
paper. Prerequisite: Senior status. M.E. O'Brien
Courses in Language FI 101. ELEMENTARY
ITALIAN I 4 An introduction to spoken and written Italian emphasizing cultural
perspectives. Linguistic emphasis is on basic grammar, vocabulary, and
the development of reading, conversation, and writing skills while
learning about the culture of Italy. Four hours of class, one hour of
drill or tutorial. Presupposes no previous study of Italian. The Department FI 102. ELEMENTARY
ITALIAN II 3
Continuation of FI 101. Further development of basic grammar, reading,
conversation, and writing skills while focusing on cultural materials
from Italy. Three hours of class, one hour of drill or tutorial. The Department FI 103. INTENSIVE
ELEMENTARY ITALIAN 4 Intensive review of introductory reading, speaking, oral comprehension,
and grammatical structures of the language for those with
some experience in the fundamentals but who still need to
acquire the competency expected at the completion of the equivalent
of FI102. Four hours of class, one hour of lab. S. Smith, The Department FI 203. INTERMEDIATE
ITALIAN 3 Continuing study of the structures
of the Italian language. Extensive practice in conversation
and writing. Vocabulary building through the reading of appropriate
texts in the literature and culture. Three hours of class
and one hour of lab. Prerequisite:FI102
or 103 or permission of instructor. G. Faustini, S. Smith FI 206. ITALIAN
LANGUAGE AND CULTURE 3 Development of Italian skills
at the advanced intermediate level. Extensive practice in
idioms. Development of vocabulary and reading skills necessary
for communication at native speed. Texts include contemporary
news materials, film, Internet sources, literature, and music.
Prerequisite:FI203
or permission of instructor. G.
Faustini, S. Smith FI 208. ITALIAN
CONVERSATION AND COMPOSITION 4 Intensive practice in daily use of Italian in a cultural context.
Review of idioms, vocabulary, and writing skills. Prerequisite:
FI203
or permission of instructor. G. Faustini,
S. Smith FI 220. LANGUAGE
ACROSS THE CURRICULUM 1 A course designed for students
who want to use their foreign language skills in any course
taught in English at the college. Does not fulfill the foreign language distribution requirement or count toward the major or minor in foreign languages and literature. Can be repeated for credit. Prerequisite:FI203. The Department FI 271, 272. ITALIAN LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE
DISCUSSION 1 A discussion group about an author,
a period, a genre, a topic, a translation, or a research project
in conjunction with another course. Can be repeated for credit.
Prerequisite:FI208
or permission of the department. G.
Faustini, S. Smith FI 304. ADVANCED
CONVERSATION AND COMPOSITION 3
Intensive practice of oral and written Italian to increase
active vocabulary and fluency in spoken Italian and to develop
and refine writing skills. Three hours of class, one hour
of discussion. G. Faustini, S. Smith
Courses in Literature and Civilization
FI 210. INTRODUCTION
TO LITERARY ANALYSIS 3 Reading and discussion of literary texts in the major genrespoetry,
theater, and prosethrough close textual analysis. This course
emphasizes the development of the analytical skills involved
in doing a close reading and the critical skills needed for
writing critical literary analysis. Regular papers required.
Prerequisite:FI203
or permission of instructor. Not open to students who have
taken FI207. (Fulfills humanities requirement.) S. Smith FI 211. MASTERPIECES
OF ITALIAN LITERATURE I 3 Study of modern Italian literature from the Enlightenment
period to the Futurist Movement focusing on major authors
and movements from the eighteenth century to the mid-twentieth
century. Prerequisite: FI203
or permission of instructor. Offered in alternate years. (Fulfills
humanites requirement.) G. Faustini FI 212. MASTERPIECES
OF ITALIAN LITERATURE II 3
Study of the most important literary movements from the precursors
of the Italian Renaissance to the end of the seventeenth century
with particular emphasis on the writings of Dante, Boccaccio,
the Humanists, Lorenzo de Medici, Michelangelo, and Machiavelli.
Prerequisite:FI203
or permission of instructor. Offered in alternate years. (Fulfills
humanities requirement.) G. Faustini FI 301. BUSINESS
ITALIAN 3 Study of commercial transactions in the context of social
and economic life in Italy today. The course focuses on management,
advertising, marketing, agricultural and industrial relations,
banking, imports and exports, and the stock market in Italy.
These topics will be considered in both the private and public
sectors, focusing on vocabulary and forms of correspondence,
employment applications, business procedures, and government
agencies. S. Smith FI 303. STUDIES
IN MODERN ITALIAN LITERATURE 3
Selected readings from the Italian Unity to the present. A
study of modern Italian novels, plays, and short stories from
the historical period to the neo-realistic period: from Manzoni
to Moravia. Prerequisite:FI203
or permission of instructor. G. Faustini, S. Smith
FI 310. IL RINASCIMENTO ITALIANO 3 Investigates Italian literature and culture from the Duecento
to the late Cinquecento. We will examine in particular
the development of the vernacular through a systematic study
of the most representative literary works of the Italian literary
tradition, which gave rise to the innovative literary, artistic,
and philosophical ideas of the Italian Renaissance. Although
the primary focus for this course is the study of literature,
we will also examine the culture of the Renaissance as presented
not only in the literary works but also in the major works
of painting, sculpture, architecture, and music of the epoch.
Readings will include selections from Dante, Petrarca, Boccaccio,
the Humanists, Pico della Mirandola, Castiglione, Ariosto,
Michelangelo, Lorenzo de' Medici, Veronica Franco, Machiavelli,
and others. Prerequisite:FI208
or permission of instructor. G. Faustini, S. Smith FI 363. SPECIAL
STUDIES IN ITALIAN 3 Advanced literary or cultural study in an author, a genre,
a period, or a topic. Prerequisite: permission of instructor. G. Faustini, S. Smith FI 371, 372. INDEPENDENT STUDY 3, 3 Individual study projects under the guidance of the department. The Department
JAPANESE
FJ 101. ELEMENTARY
JAPANESE I 4 An introduction to spoken and written Japanese emphasizing cultural
perspectives. Linguistic emphasis is on basic grammar, vocabulary, and
the development of reading, conversation, and writing skills while
learning about the culture of Japan. Four hours of class, one hour of
drill or tutorial. Presupposes no previous study of Japanese. M. Inamoto FJ 102. ELEMENTARY
JAPANESE II 3
Continuation of FJ 101. Further development of basic grammar, reading,
conversation, and writing skills while focusing on cultural materials
from Japan. Three hours of class, one hour of drill or tutorial. M. Inamoto FJ 203. INTERMEDIATE
JAPANESE 3 Continuing study of the structures
of the Japanese language. Extensive practice in conversation
and writing. Vocabulary building through the reading of appropriate
texts in the literature and culture. Three hours of class
and one hour of lab. Prerequisite:FJ102. M. Inamoto FJ 206. JAPANESE
LANGUAGE AND CULTURE 3 Development of Japanese skills
at the advanced intermediate level. Extensive practice in
idioms. Development of vocabulary and reading skills necessary
for communication at native speed. Texts include contemporary
news materials, film, Internet sources, literature, and music.
Prerequisite: FJ203
or permission of the department. (Designated a non-Western
culture course.) M. Inamoto FJ 207. ADVANCED
INTERMEDIATE JAPANESE I 3 Systematic study of advanced
intermediate Japanese linguistic structures. Reading of selected
texts concerning Japanese culture/society. Discussion in Japanese
based on the reading. Intensive practice in writing short
essays. Prerequisite:FJ203
or permission of instructor. M. Inamoto FJ 208. ADVANCED
INTERMEDIATE JAPANESE II 3
Continuation of FJ207. Further study of grammar, idioms, and
vocabulary. Reading of authentic materials such as newspapers/magazine
articles. Aural-oral exercises and intensive practice in writing
short essays. Prerequisite:FJ207
or permission of instructor. M. Inamoto FJ 220. LANGUAGE
ACROSS THE CURRICULUM 1 A course designed for students
who want to use their foreign language skills in any course
taught in English at the college. Does not fulfill the foreign language distribution requirement or count toward the major or minor in foreign languages and literature. Can be repeated for credit. Prerequisite:FJ203. M. Inamoto FJ 271, 272. JAPANESE LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE DISCUSSION 1 A discussion group about an author,
a period, a genre, a topic, a translation, or a research project
in conjunction with another course. Can be repeated for credit.
Prerequisite: FJ208
or permission of the department. M. Inamoto FJ 363. SPECIAL
STUDIES IN JAPANESE 3 Advanced literary or cultural study in an author, a genre,
a period, or a topic. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
(Designated a non-Western culture course.) Course must enroll
at least five students to be offered. M. Inamoto FJ 371, 372. INDEPENDENT STUDY 3 Individual study projects under the guidance of the department. M. Inamoto
Courses in Language FS 101. ELEMENTARY
SPANISH I 4
An introduction to spoken and written Spanish emphasizing cultural
perspectives. Linguistic emphasis is on basic grammar, vocabulary, and
the development of reading, conversation, and writing skills while
learning about the cultures of Spain and Spanish America. Four hours of
class, one hour of drill or tutorial. Presupposes no previous study of
Spanish. The Department FS 102. ELEMENTARY
SPANISH II 3 Continuation of FS 101. Further development of basic grammar, reading,
conversation, and writing skills while focusing on cultural materials
from Spain and Spanish America. Three hours of class, one hour of drill
or tutorial. The
Department FS
203. INTENSIVE INTERMEDIATE SPANISH 4 Continuing intensive study of
the structures of the Spanish language. Extensive practice
in conversation and writing. Vocabulary building through the
reading of appropriate texts in the literature and culture.
Four hours of class and one hour of lab. Prerequisites:FS102
or 103 The Department FS 206. SPANISH
CONVERSATION 3 Development of Spanish oral skills at the advanced intermediate
level. Extensive practice in conversational idioms. Development
of nonliterary, informal spoken vocabulary; of reading skills
necessary to comprehend authentic news materials; of aural
comprehension essential for understanding oral speech at native
speed. Prerequisite:FS203
or permission of department. The Department FS 208. WRITING IN SPANISH 4 Review of grammar, idioms, and vocabulary. Intensive practice
in writing short essays. Prerequisite:FS203
or permission of instructor. The Department FS 220. LANGUAGE
ACROSS THE CURRICULUM 1 A course designed for students
who want to use their foreign language skills in any course
taught in English at the college. Does not fulfill the foreign language distribution requirement or count toward the major or minor in foreign languages and literature. Can be repeated for credit. Prerequisite:FS203. The Department FS 271, 272. SPANISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE DISCUSSION 1 A discussion group about an author,
a period, a genre, a topic, a translation, or a research project
in conjunction with another course. Can be repeated for credit.
Prerequisite: FS208
or permission of the department. The
Department FS 301. BUSINESS
SPANISH 4 An introduction to business institutions in the Hispanic world.
The course focuses on economic geography, correspondence,
and government requirements for business, as well as vocabulary
used in banking, advertising, stock market, insurance, communications,
and export and import. Primarily for students majoring in
Spanish and business. P. Rubio, C. Grant FS 303. SPANISH
PHONETICS 3 Intensive work on phonetics, intonation, and diction. Phonetic
transcriptions of spoken Spanish and practice in oral reading.
Three hours of class, one hour of discussion. Offered on demand. FS 304. ADVANCED
CONVERSATION AND COMPOSITION 4 Intensive practice of oral and written Spanish to increase
active vocabulary and fluency in spoken Spanish and to develop
further and refine writing skills. Four hours of class. Prerequisite:FS208
or permission of instructor. J. Lertora,
P. Rubio, M. Mudrovic
Courses in Literature and Civilization
FS 210. INTRODUCTION
TO THE READING OF LITERARY TEXTS 4
Reading and introduction of Hispanic literary texts to develop
skills in literary analysis and critical writing using examples
from the three main literary genres. Recommended for those
planning to take FS211 or 212. Three hours of class. Prerequisite:
FS203,
206,
or permission of instructor. (Fulfills humanities requirement.) The Department FS 211. SURVEY
OF SPANISH LITERATURE 4 A study of the main currents of Spanish literature from the
Renaissance to the twentieth century. Representative works
of such major literary movements as the Golden Age, Neoclassicism,
Romanticism, Realism, the Generation of '98, and the twentieth
century will be studied. Prerequisite:FS208
or permission of instructor. (Fulfills humanities requirement.) G. Burton, M. Mudrovic FS 212. SURVEY
OF SPANISH AMERICAN LITERATURE 4 A study of the main currents of Spanish American literature
from Colonial times to the present. Such authors as Sor Juana,
Gallegos, Darío, Carpentier, Mistral, Neruda, Paz,
and Cortázar will be studied. Prerequisite:FS208
or permission of instructor. (Fulfills humanities requirement.) P. Rubio, J. Lértora, B. Loyola FS 313. LITERATURE
OF THE GOLDEN AGE 3 A study of the novel, drama, and poetry, centering on the
picaresque novel, Cervantes, Lope de Vega, Tirso de Molina,
Calderón de la Barca, Góngora, and Quevedo.
Prerequisite:FS211,
212
or consent of department. Offered every third year. G. Burton FS 314. SPANISH
LITERATURE OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 3 A study of poetry, drama, and the novel of the nineteenth
century, centering on Espronceda, Duque de Rivas, Zorrilla,
Pérez Galdós, Valera, Pardo Bazán, and
Clarín. Prerequisite:FS211,
212,
or consent of department. Offered every third year. M. Mudrovic FS 317. SPANISH
LITERATURE OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY 3 A study of the drama, novel, and poetry of the Generation of '98 as well as selected novels and dramas since
the Civil War. Prerequisite: FS211,
212,
or consent of the instructor. Offered every third year. M. Mudrovic FS 319. SPANISH
AMERICAN NARRATIVE OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY 3 A study of the main characteristics of the contemporary Spanish-American
novel and short story in the work of authors such as Borges,
Asturias, Carpentier, Cortázar, García Márquez,
Onetti, Vargas Llosa, Fuentes. Prerequisite:FS210,
211
or 212
or permission of instructor. Offered every third year. P. Rubio, J. Lértora FS 320. STUDIES
IN SPANISH AMERICAN POETRY 3
A study of the development of Spanish American poetry from
Modernismo to the present in the work of poets such as Darío,
Nervo, Valencia, Mistral, Torres Bodet, Neruda, Paz. Prerequisite:
FS211
or 212
or permission of instructor. Offered every third year. J. Lértora FS 321. STUDIES
IN SPANISH AMERICAN DRAMA 3
A study of the development of Spanish American drama from
the seventeenth century to the present including such authors
as Alarcón, Sor Juana, Goros-tiga, Eichelbaum, Usigli,
Garro, Carballido, Wolf, Gambaro, and Sánchez. Prerequisite:FS211
or 212
or permission of instructor. J. Lértora
FS 323. SPANISH IN THE MEDIA 4 A study of the Spanish-speaking
world within its contemporary cultural context, especially
as manifested in the media (newspapers, magazines, radio, television).
This course is designed to give students a more complex understanding
of Hispanic culture. We will study such topics as political,
social, and economic trends in the Spanish-speaking world,
the relationship between language and society, and dialect
as an expression of culture. Prerequisite:FS208. V. Rangil
FS 324A.
SPANISH FILM 4
A study of films produced and directed by Spanish, Spanish American,
and Latino filmmakers. Students will learn about film theory and
cinematographic techniques, and will analyze the specific social,
cultural, and historical thematic of the films. In readings and
discussions, students will address cultural differences, gender studies,
and aesthetic concepts. The course will be offered on a bi-yearly,
alternating basis. M. Mudrovic
FS 324B.
SPANISH AMERICAN/LATINO FILM 4
A study of films produced and directed by Spanish, Spanish American,
and Latino filmmakers. Students will learn about film theory and
cinematographic techniques, and will analyze the specific social,
cultural, and historical thematic of the films. In readings and
discussions, students will address cultural differences, gender studies,
and aesthetic concepts. The course will be offered on a bi-yearly,
alternating basis. V. Rangil
FS 330. SPANISH
AMERICAN ESSAY 3 A study of the development of Spanish American thought from
Independence to the present. Special attention will be given
to the intellectual trends contributing to independence, to
the foundations of the new republics and their relationships
to Europe, and to the definition of Spanish-American identity
and culture. Particular consideration will be afforded to
the writings of Bolívar, Sarmiento, Bello, Lastarria,
Rodó, Mariátegui, Martí, Zea, and Paz,
among others. J. Lértora, P.
Rubio FS 331. THE CULTURE
OF SPANISH AMERICA I 3 An exploration of the historical, cultural, and artistic development
of Spanish America from discovery to independence. Students
will also assess the impact of the encounter and development
of the colonial empire on native American populations and
the environment, from diaries and letters of conquerors and
settlers. Particular attention will be given to the Jesuit
missions in Paraguay, to the environmental expeditions through
the period, and the impact of the slave trade. Prerequisite:
FS211
or 212
or permission of instructor. Offered in alternate years. P. Rubio FS 332. THE CULTURE
OF SPANISH AMERICA II 3 An exploration of Spanish America's historical, cultural,
and artisitic development from independence to the present.
Students will focus on issues of nation building and identity
as expressed in fiction and nonfiction, and on the impact
of both revolutionary movements and dictatorial regimes on
the developments of literature and art. Prerequisite: FS212
or permission of instructor. Offered in alternate years. P. Rubio FS 334. CERVANTES 3 A study of the prose, drama, and poetry of Miguel de Cervantes
in the light of the social and intellectual currents of early
seventeenth-century Spain. Particular attention will be paid
to Don Quijote. G. Burton FS 363. SPECIAL
STUDIES IN SPANISH 3 Advanced literary or cultural
study in an author, a genre, a period, or a topic. Prerequisite:
permission of instructor. The Department FS 371, 372. INDEPENDENT
STUDY 3, 3 Individual study projects under the guidance of the department. The Department FS 374. THESIS 3 An extended research project culminating in a paper based
on readings and extensive individual conferences. Required
of all majors who wish to be considered for departmental honors.
Prerequisite:FS376,
senior standing, permission of instructor, and 3.5 grade point
average in the major. The Department FS 376. SEMINAR 3 A detailed study of an author, a period, or theme relevant
to the understanding of Spanish and Spanish-American literature
and culture with special attention to the essay. Frequent
oral reports. Close attention to development, organization,
and writing of an extensive paper. Prerequisite: Senior
status. The Department
SELF-INSTRUCTIONAL
LANGUAGE COURSES
FX
171, 172. SELF-INSTRUCTIONAL BASIC STUDY 3, 3 Arabic, Hebrew, Hindi, Korean,
Portuguese, Russian. FX 271, 272. SELF-INSTRUCTIONAL INTERMEDIATE STUDY 3, 3 Arabic, Hebrew, Hindi, Korean,
Portuguese, Russian.
LITERATURE AND CIVILIZATION
COURSES TAUGHT IN ENGLISH
These courses are open to all students. Knowledge of a foreign
language is not a prerequisite, with the exception of FL399. FL 242. SELF AND SOCIETY IN MODERN JAPAN 3
A study of how modern Japanese writers have responded to the challenges
in the twentieth century. An interdisciplinary survey of modern Japanese
prose literature in English translation beginning with the Meiji period
until the end of the twentieth century. Students will study the
interaction of traditional Japanese sensibilities with Western literary
ideas and techniques as represented in major literary movements in
Japan. Works will be discussed in terms of their cultural, historical,
and literary contexts. (Designated a non-Western culture course; fulfills LS2 requirement.) M. Inamoto FL 243. THE WORLD OF JAPANESE ANIMATION 3
An introduction to the world of Japanese animation (animé), one of the
most important cultural products in contemporary Japan. Students will
study prevailing themes and genres of animé in their cultural and
historical contexts from a variety of perspectives. The course also
focuses on animé in relation to popular culture and the role of animé
fan culture. (Designated a non-Western culture course; fulfills Cultural Diversity
requirement; fulfills LS2 requirement.) M. Inamoto FL 250. AN OUTLINE
OF GERMAN CIVILIZATION: THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY TO THE PRESENT 3 An exploration of German life, culture, and politics from
the eighteenth century to the present. The course focuses
on Germany's quest for national unity, emphasizing the relationship
between Germany's political development and its cultural life.
Course materials include historical readings, political essays,
musical compositions, art works, films, and literary texts.
Offered in alternate years. M. O'Brien FL 252. ITALIAN
CINEMA: FROM FICTION TO FILM 3
An examination of the literary and sociopolitical trends of
Italian culture as portrayed by the media of literature and
film. The course will focus on the literary works of Boccaccio,
Machiavelli, Moravia, De Filippo, Bassani, and the cinematographic
adaptations of those works by such directors as Pasolini,
Lattuada, Visconti, and De Sica. The course also specifically
examines the role in Italian cinema of such director-authors
as Fellini and Wertmuller and the importance of Italian cinematic
Neorealism in the films of Rossellini, De Sica, and Visconti.
Offered in 2001-02 and alternate years. (Fulfills humanities
requirement.) G. Faustini FL 253, 254. ITALIAN CIVILIZATION IN TRANSLATION 3, 3 Study of the development of Italian civilization with emphasis
on the historical, artistic, philosophical, literary, musical,
and sociopolitical background. Fall semester: late Medieval
period to the Baroque. Spring semester: seventeenth century
to the present. G. Faustini FL 257. MODERN
CHINESE LITERATURE IN TRANSLATION 3 A critical survey of twentieth-century Chinese literature
up to the present. Readings include short stories, novels,
poetry, music, painting, and drama. Special emphasis is placed
on Chinese thought and culture compared to the Western tradition.
(Designated a non-Western culture course; fulfills humanities
requirement.) M. Chen FL 258. CHINESE
CIVILIZATION I: LITERARY CULTURE IN CLASSICAL CHINA 3 A survey of Chinese civilization
from the Shang dynasty to the present with emphasis on the
historical, artistic, philosophical, literary, musical, sociopolitical
background. Shang dynasty (1766 B.C.) to early tenth century.
FL258 and 259 need not be taken in sequence. M.
Chen FL 259. CHINESE
CIVILIZATION II: CULTURE AND LITERATURE OF LATE IMPERIAL CHINA 3 A survey of Chinese civilization
from the Shang dynasty to the present with emphasis on the
historical, artistic, philosophical, literary, musical, sociopolitical
background. Tenth century to the present. FL258 and 259 need
not be taken in sequence. M. Chen FL 263. SPECIAL
TOPICS IN FOREIGN LITERATURE AND CULTURE 3 Study of a special topic in which the interrelatedness of
literature and other cultural representations is explored
from a comparative and/or theoretical perspective. Interdisciplinary
in nature, the course will bring together works of different
cultural origin and background. Intended for majors or minors
in the department. Prerequisites: Completion of department
courses numbered 202, 203 or 205; or by permission of instructor.
A. The Fantastic in Fiction. An introduction to the Fantastic
in literature and art as a mode of representation whose ambiguous
structure oscillates between the real and the imaginary. The
magical is ingrained in ordinary experience thus expanding
the concept of reality, and emphasizing literary discourse
as the locus of indeterminacy. Specific attention will be
focused on selected writers and theorists, but the course
will also provide a diachronic and theoretical background
for the discussion of the Fantastic. Readings from authors
such as E.T.A. Hoffmann, Kafka, Borges, Cortazar, Garcia Marquez,
Torrente Balester, Calvino, Buzzati, Gautier, Nerval, Maupassant,
Villiers de l'Isle-Adam, and theorists such as Freud, Bessier,
T. Todorov, and Roh. (Fulfills LS2 requirement.) J. Anzalone
B. Exoticism. This course will examine the
cultural construction of the "exotic" as it emerges
primarily, but not exclusively, in nineteenth- and twentieth-century
literary texts. The course will address questions such as:
How are the relationships between colonialism, imperialism,
and exoticism dramatized via literature? How does the hegemonic
(i.e. France) and the non-hegemonic (i.e. Spain, or Latin
America) positioning of a culture shape its particular notion
of the exotic? How do cultures that are viewed as exotic exoticize
other cultures? What role do other derminants such as gender,
race, or class play in the construction of the exotic? Readings
from authors such as Baudelaire, Flaubert, Nerval, Gautier,
Dario, Casal, Tablada, Villaespesa, and Valle-Inclan. H. Jaouad
C. The Fascist Aesthetic. The emergence and significance
of the fascist aeesthetic are explored via close study of
the fundamental ideology of totalitarianism in twentieth-century
Europe. Concepts such as the soldierly male, the leader principle,
racial eugenics, community, modernity, and the fascination
with violence will be examined in film, literature, and the
visual arts. Readings from among writer such as Drieu la Rochelle,
Celine, Tournier, Junger, and D'Annunzio, and from such theorists
of totalitarianism as Adorno, Freud, Zhelev, and Arendt. M. O'Brien
D. The Fate of Forbidden Knowledge
in Literature and Science. An investigation of the perplexing
ethical questions raised by this renaissance shift in attitude
toward the Faust legend. The flirtation with forbidden knowledge
will be studied by drawing on religious, mythological, literary,
philosophical, and scientific texts. Taking recent developments
in genetic engineering as a case in point, we will ask to
what extent the pursuit of knowledge can enhance or be damaging
to human experience. These and other questions will be explored
to show how literary texts can contain moral issues of lasting
concern for the scientific community and for society at large.
(Fulfills LS2 requirement.) R. Mayer FL 265. LATINOS
IN THE UNITED STATES 3 An examination from an interdisciplinary perspective of Hispanic
society in the United States. Major Latino groups (e.g., Cubans,
Mexicans, and Puerto Ricans) will be studied and special attention
will be given to the interaction between these groups and
United States mainstream society. We will focus on the historical,
sociological, literary, and political aspects of cultural
change in contact situations. Particular attention will be
paid to issues of prejudice and discrimination. V. Rangil FL 266. IMAGES
OF REVOLUTION AND SOCIAL UPHEAVAL: FRANCE 1789-1939 3 Study through literary and historical texts, and via artistic
representation of the experience and consequences of social
change in France over a century and a half of upheaval. Beginning
with the outbreak of revolution in 1789, we will analyze the
effects on French culture of the long and tormented path leading
to the establishment of Republicanism. Particular attention
to the trials and tribulations of the Third Republic during
the Dreyfus Affair and in the period between the world wars
in order to discern the evolution of specific cultural tendencies
over time. Taught in English. (Fulfills LS2 requirement.) J. Anzalone FL 267. MODERN
JAPANESE CULTURE AND SOCIETY 3
Introduction to modern Japanese culture and society, emphasizing
the period 1945 to the present, and considering topics including
education, family and neighborhood, gender and work, and discrimination.
The course analyzes social change in Japan over time in the
course of Japan's modernization and internationalization,
paying attention to the interplay between Japan's traditional
cultural values and modern society. (Fulfills LS2 requirement;
designated a non-Western culture course.) M. Inamoto FL 269. CULTURAL CHINA: TRENDS AND THEMES 3
A course surveying twentieth-century Chinese literature, film, and
popular culture, introducing some important cultural and intellectual
issues of contemporary China. Students will consider the impact of
cultural changes in Chinese society, their causes, and their
representations in fiction, poetry, popular literature, film, and music.
Students will gain a critical understanding of the intricate
relationsip between self and society, social change and alienation,
family and gender relationships, nationalism and orientalism, revolution
and memory, media and propaganda, and love and violence in China.
(Designated
a non-Western culture course; fulfills LS2 requirement.) B. Linder FL 270. HOLDING UP HALF THE SKY: GENDER, WRITING, AND NATIONHOOD IN CHINA 3
Interdisciplinary exploration of gender issues in China, especially but not
exclusively focusing on the roles of women in the making of modern Chinese
history. Students will learn about cultural specificities in the experiences of
Chinese women while exploring the diverse meanings of "women's status" and
gender relations. Themes to be examined in the course content include gendered
subjectivities, the ideology of the new women, the impact of globalization and
transnational capital, different gender roles, and women’s writing from the
Opium War to contemporary China. Emphasis on different stages of women’s
writing in relation to their cultural conditions and social awakening, and on
the ways ideologies helped form gender identities in the twentieth century.
(Designated a non-Western culture course; fulfills LS2 requirement.) M. Chen FL 321. WOMEN
IN FRANCE SINCE THE REVOLUTION 3 Analysis of women writers and
female stereotypes since the French Revolution as seen primarily
through novels and plays of such writers as de Staël,
Sand, Flaubert, Stendhal, Colette, Claudel, de Beauvoir, Duras,
and Sarraute. Historical, sociological and artistic documents
will also be examined for what they reveal of the changing
consciousness of women in France. Offered every third year. A. Zuerner FL 322. THE FRENCH
FILM 3 Study of some of the key features of the cinema of France,
beginning with an historical overview of the development of
the idiom, from the silent films of the Surrealists and René
Clair, to the Golden Age of sound in the thirties and concluding
with the New Wave and its posterity. The course will also
study film as a language and use it as a means for exploring
cultural identity. Students will view a selection of films
by Clair, Dali/Bunuel, Vigo, Renoir, Carne, Duvivier, Truffaut,
Godard, Eustache, Tanner, and Rohmer, among others, and read
criticism by directors, critics, and theorists. Prerequisite:
for credit in the French major, FF203
or 205. J. Anzalone FL 371, 372. INDEPENDENT STUDY 3, 3 Individual study projects under the guidance of department. The Department FL 374. THESIS 3 An extended research project culminating in a paper based
on readings and extensive individual conferences. Primarily
for interdepartmental majors who wish to be considered for
honors. Prerequisite: senior standing, permission of
an instructor, and at least a 3.5 grade-point average. The Department FL 376. SEMINAR 3 A detailed exploration of a theme reflected in the cultures
of French, German, Italian, and Spanish speaking civilizations.
Frequent oral reports in English by members of the class. Close attention to development,
organization, and writing of an extensive paper. Required
of all majors not enrolled in 374. FL 399. PROFESSIONAL
INTERNSHIP IN FOREIGN LANGUAGES 3,
6 or 9 Professional experience at an advanced level for juniors and
seniors with substantial academic and cocurricular experience
in the major field. With faculty sponsorship and departmental
approval, students may extend their educational experience
into such areas as the communications fields, the media, pedagogy,
and translation. Primarily but not exclusively for students
participating in Skidmore's Junior Year Abroad programs. Prerequisite:
advanced standing in the language appropriate to the internship.
Non-liberal arts.
