Department of Modern Languages
Courses
French Studies
101, 102. Elementary French
Designed for beginning students and aimed at developing skill in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in French. Emphasis on communication through intensive aural/oral practice and awareness of cultural context. Three class meetings and one or two laboratory sessions per week at the discretion of the instructor.
201, 202. Intermediate French
Continued emphasis on the four basic skills. Intensive aural/oral practice. Review of grammar, expansion of vocabulary, and their application in writing. Development of effective reading strategies in response to both expository and literary texts. Familiarization of the student with French life and the francophone world. Three class meetings and one laboratory session per week. Prerequisite: French 102, appropriate placement score, or permission of the instructor.
301, 302. Advanced French
A sequence designed to deepen the student's skills reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Journalistic, cultural, and literary readings about contemporary French life serve to develop the student's ability to analyze texts and to write clearly and persuasively in varied forms, such as the résumé, analysis, commentary, description, and short narrative. Class discussion aims at stimulating fluent and spontaneous use of spoken French. The course includes instruction in phonetics as a guide to correct pronunciation as well as multimedia cultural activities intended to improve the student's linguistic and cultural knowledge. The course prepares the student for upper-level literature and civilization courses and for study abroad in a Francophone country.
303, 304. Introduction to French and Francophone Literature and Culture
A course designed to help students answer the questions, "How does one talk and write about literature?" and "What does it mean to read and give a reading to a text?" An exploration of selected works representing different genres both in relation to other literary movements and their historical contexts. Prerequisite: French 301 or permission of the instructor.
311. Contemporary France
Taught in English, this course provides an introductory historical and cultural study of contemporary France. Students will be provided tools for cultural interpretation via critical texts and the analysis of French films and their American remakes; they will then apply them to the cultural history of France. We will explore the impact of World War II, of the student protests of May '68, and of women's emancipation movements. We will examine France's position in the world—its past as a colonizing nation, its present post-colonial actions, and its multicultural identity enriched by different waves of immigration. We will study the political and economic roles of women, their place in the family, health concerns, and struggles for autonomy through works by women. This course counts toward the French major and minor if the journal entries, mid-term exam, and final paper are written in French.
312. The Contemporary Francophone World
Taught in English, this course provides an introductory historical and cultural study of the contemporary Francophone world. Designed as a survey of the non-European Francophone world, the course will offer for study both literary and cultural documents from the Caribbean, North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Canada. Initially they will be provided tools for cultural interpretation via critical texts, media analysis (including print and internet sources) and the analysis of Francophone films; they will then apply them to the cultural history of the Francophone world. We will explore French colonization, the process of decolonization, and subsequent independence movements. We will examine social, political, and economic roles of both women and men, changing gender roles, and contemporary divisions of labor. Finally, we will reflect on the political, historical, and socio-cultural situations of post-colonial Francophone nations.
412. The Renaissance in France
Reading and discussion of works exemplifying the literary achievement of sixteenth-century France and its relation to the spread of printing, voyages of exploration, the rise of Humanism, the Reformation, and the Wars of Religion. Readings include works by Marot, Rabelais, Scève, Louise Labé, du Bellay, Ronsard, Marguerite de Navarre, and Montaigne. Prerequisite: French 303, 304 or permission of the instructor.
413. The "Grand Siècle"
A study of representative works of the "grand siècle," in which France achieved cultural ascendancy in Europe. Exploration of the development of classicism and its relation to the emergence of a centralized, autocratic régime. Readings will include dramatic works by Corneille, Racine, and Molière and selected non-dramatic writings: the poetry of La Fontaine, Madame de Lafayette's La Princesse de Clèves, the letters of Mme. de Sévigné, and selected writings of Descartes, Pascal, and La Bruyère. Prerequisite: French 303, 304 or permission of the instructor.
414. Les Lumières
A study of letters and the history of ideas from the Regency to the Revolution, with emphasis on the philosophers' use of literature as a weapon to further their rationalistic, humanitarian ideas. The Pre-Romantic reaction to the Age of Reason as manifested in writing and painting. Readings include works by Prévost, Voltaire, Diderot, Rousseau, Beau-marchais, Bernardin de Saint-Pierre, and de Staëul. Prerequisite: French 303, 304 or permission of the instructor.
415. Nineteenth-Century France: Romantics, Realists, Symbolists
An exploration of the nature of the different grands récits that shape this century and of how they relate to problems of colonialism, aestheticism, industrialization, class structures, feminism, publishing, and criticism. Examines as well the effects of the crise du roman. Prerequisite: French 303, 304 or permission of the instructor.
416. French and Francophone Poetry
An examination of major trends in French poetry from Romanticism to the present, this course is designed to increase the student's awareness of and appreciation for poetry by close reading and explication in class of representative poems. Special attention will be paid to poetic forms and devices. Prerequisite: French 303, 304 or permission of the instructor.
417. Twentieth Century Evolutions and Revolutions: 1900-1945
Evolutions and revolutions in French literature in their necessary relation to other artistic, social, philosophical, and psychoanalytical developments, criticism, the impact of the two World Wars and the interwar period. Emphasis on narrative and genre. Readings will include works by Apollinaire, Barthes, Colette, Proust, Sartre, and Surrealist writers. Prerequisite: French 303, 304 or permission of the instructor.
418. Post-World War II France
What are the voices of the post-war period, feminism, and anticolonialism? What is the nature of identity and nationalism? What was the impact of the Algerian War and Mai '68? What is the nouveau roman? Who are some of the critics that have helped shape the visions of this century? Readings will be drawn from works by Beauvoir, Beckett, Césaire, Cixous, Duras, Fanon, Foucault, Ionesco, and Robbe-Grillet. Prerequisite: French 303, 304 or permission of the instructor.
419. Studies in Francophone Literature and Culture
This course will present the student with a number of aesthetic, cultural, historical, and political issues relevant to francophone literature. The particular national or regional focus will vary. Prerequisite: French 303, 304 or permission of the instructor.
451, 452. Senior Reading
The intensive study of an author or literary genre. Open to seniors; others by permission.
194, 294, 394, 494. Special Topics in French Studies
The intensive study of a selected author, movement, genre, or theme. Prerequisite: French 303, 304 or permission of the instructor for 394 and 494.
190, 290, 390, 490. Internship
195, 295, 395, 495. On-campus Research
196, 296, 396, 496. Off-campus Research
197, 297, 397, 497. Independent Study.
SCE. Senior Capstone Experiencein French Studies
The senior capstone seminar is required for graduation and is devoted to the completion of a thesis or other project or to preparation for a comprehensive examination in the field of French Studies. Senior French Studies majors register for this course in the last semester in which they have full-time status at the College. While much of the work is done by each student independently in consultation with a faculty advisor, there are occasional group meetings in which those students writing theses or developing other projects report on the progress of their work and in which students preparing for the comprehensive examination discuss the texts and other materials they are studying. All students will give a formal oral presentation in the target language before their peers and the faculty at the end of the seminar. Thesis students will present their research. Students who are taking the comprehensive examination will choose a topic for their presentation in consultation with the faculty advisor. The Senior capstone Experiencewill be graded Pass, Fail or Honors.
Courses Offered in the Washington College Abroad Programs
301. Advanced French Language
An advanced course on grammatical structure and stylistics with special attention given to technical vocabulary and discourse. Offered in the Paris program only, in the fall semester. (In French.) Three credits.
302. Practical Oral/Written Expression
This course will help students to increase their fluency and vocabulary. Grammar review will focus on special problems. Offered in the Paris program only, in the fall semester. (In French.) Three credits.
308. Contemporary France
Discussions and study of issues related to contemporary cultural, political, and social developments in France, including its place in today's European economy. The course will include certain aspects of the constitution of the 5th Republic. Other topics will include immigration, justice, and the media. There will be field trips to appropriate locations throughout the course. Offered in the Paris program only, in the fall semester. (In French.) Prerequisite: French 202 or the equivalent. Three credits.
494. Special Topics
Explores an area of special interest in French literature or culture studies. Specific topic to be determined. Offered in the Paris program only, in the fall semester. Three credits.
495. Selected Authors, Works, and Themes
Works of one or more outstanding authors or on a special theme. Specific topic to be determined. Offered in the Paris program only, in the fall semester. Three credits.
German Studies
101, 102. Elementary German
Designed to develop basic proficiency in aural comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Authentic cultural materials (videos, slides, and cassettes) and computer-aided instruction enrich the students' knowledge and understanding of German-speaking countries. A native German-speaking assistant serves as tutor for the course. Three class meetings and one or two laboratory sessions per week at the discretion of the instructor.
201, 202. Intermediate German
Review and intensified practice of language skills. German literary texts, newspapers, magazines, and television shows provide the basis for discussion of a wide range of contemporary social, political, and cultural topics. Class projects allow students to explore issues of their particular interest. A native German-speaking assistant serves as tutor for the course. Three class meetings and one or two laboratory sessions per week at the discretion of the instructor. Prerequisite: German 102, appropriate placement score, or permission of the instructor.
301, 302. Advanced German Proficiency
Students enhance their language skills and build their vocabulary through instructional units involving contemporary texts and literature. Topics include: "The Modernization of the 'Märchen'," "German Perception of America through American Film," "Contemporary Short Stories by Women," "'Der kleine Vampir', a Children's Book." Texts and assignments are chosen to fit the particular needs, interests and proficiency level of students. Multi-media classroom instruction includes use of video, cd's and the Internet. Prerequisite: German 202 or permission of the instructor.
304. German Civilization
A survey of German history, politics, and art from their beginnings to the present with special emphasis on the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. In addition, this course will focus on a close study of the geography and social structures of German-speaking countries. Use will be made of authentic sources. Students will continue to develop language skills, especially reading strategies and vocabulary building. Prerequisite: German 202 or permission of the instructor.
305. Introduction to German Literature
This course provides students with the analytic tools that will facilitate the reading and interpretation of German literature. Specific artistic accomplishments are discussed against the background of historical and social contexts. Brief selections reach from the writings of Martin Luther to works by contemporary women. Particular emphasis will be placed on authors of the twentieth century. Students will continue to develop language skills, especially reading strategies and vocabulary building. Prerequisite: German 202 or permission of the instructor.
411. The Classical Age
Largely prevented from taking an active political role in the society of their day, late eighteenth-century German authors and intellectuals began what amounted to an artistic revolution—a revolution in thought and expression whose effects are still felt today. Focusing on key works by Kant, Goethe, Schiller, Mozart, Beethoven, and others, this course explores and critiques central concerns of the German Classical Age (e.g., enlightenment, tolerance, harmony, human perfectibility, progress, etc.)
412. Romantic Germany
Set against the backdrop of French/European revolution, German Romantic thought manifested two distinct but related modes. On the one hand, many romantics broke with traditional commonplaces about art, nature, and humanity, embracing forms of philosophical idealism, pantheism, and "Romantic Irony." On the other hand, however, a number of artists and intellectuals also longed for a return to the past—to an "organic" society in which divisive religious and political conflicts were as yet unknown. The course examines these and related trends as manifested in the literature, philosophy, painting, and music of the era.
413. The Birth of Modern Germany
In many respects, modern German history may be said to have begun with the failed bourgeois revolution of 1848. With the shattering of its democratic hopes, the German middle class largely turned away from political concerns, focusing instead on the pleasures of family life, the private accumulation of wealth, and the advancement of science and industry. At the same time, the German bourgeoisie also came to accept the autocratic state authority with which it would ever afterwards be associated. This course traces the often ambivalent artistic responses to German "modernity," focusing on figures such as Fontane, Hauptmann, Nietzsche, Wagner, and Rilke, and the movements with which they are associated (Realism, Naturalism, Symbolism, and Expressionism.)
417. Democratic and Totalitarian Germany
Few eras continue to fascinate as do those of Germany's Weimar Republic (1918-1933) and Third Reich (1933-1945). In the former, we find a fragile new democracy characterized at once by anxiety, inflation, and the destruction of values, as well as an explosion of creative energies in literature, film, music, the visual arts, and architecture. In the latter, by contrast, Germany's "Golden Twenties" come crashing to a halt; post-war anxieties, uncertainties, and freedoms are exchanged for the reactionary nationalism of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party. Drawing on key cultural artifacts from the periods in question, this course considers the troubled relationship between democracy and totalitarianism in German history. The course then concludes with an analysis of the divided Germany as it developed after 1945.
418. The Culture of the Open Society
With the construction of the Berlin Wall in 1961, Germany's permanent separation seemed assured. In the east, the German Democratic Republic sought to realize a socialist state founded upon the principles of Marxism-Leninism. In the west, the Federal Republic of Germany embraced the model of a capitalist and politically "open" (pluralistic) society. This seminar focuses on the trials and triumphs of the latter, tracing social, cultural, and political developments from 1961 to the present. Topics of discussion will include Germany's "economic miracle" and "affluent society," the social market economy, student, peace, and women's movements, terrorism, and German Reunification.
194, 294, 394, 494. Special Topics in German Studies
The intensive study of a selected author, movement, genre, or theme in German culture studies.
190, 290, 390, 490. Internship
195, 295, 395, 495. On-campus Research
196, 296, 396, 496. Off-campus Research
197, 297, 397, 497. Independent Study
SCE. Senior Capstone Experiencein German Studies
The senior capstone seminar is required for graduation and is devoted to the completion of a thesis or other project or to preparation for a comprehensive examination in the field of German Studies. Senior German Studies majors register for this course in the last semester in which they have full-time status at the College. While much of the work is done by each student independently in consultation with a faculty advisor, there are occasional group meetings in which those students writing theses or developing other projects report on the progress of their work and in which students preparing for the comprehensive examination discuss the texts and other materials they are studying. All students will give a formal oral presentation in the target language before their peers and the faculty at the end of the seminar. Thesis students will present their research. Students who are taking the comprehensive examination will choose a topic for their presentation in consultation with the faculty advisor. The Senior Capstone Experiencewill be graded Pass, Fail or Honors.
After consultation with the faculty in the German Program, students can take up to two 300- or 400-level courses from outside the German Program for credit toward a major, one such course toward a minor, in German studies if these courses contain substantial work done in German under the supervision of the German faculty. The following courses are recommended. This list is not exclusive.
- ART 315. Northern Renaissance and Baroque Art
- ECN 410. International Economics
- HIS 354. Renaissance and Reformation
- HIS 360. Twentieth Century Germany
- HIS 362. Europe Since 1945
- MUS 308. Classic Music
- MUS 312. Romantic Music
- PHL 414. The Philosophy of Marxism
- POL 315. Comparative Government Western Europe
Hispanic Studies
101, 102. Elementary Spanish
Designed to develop basic proficiency in aural comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. A native Spanish-speaking assistant serves as tutor for the course. Three class meetings and one or two laboratory sessions per week at the discretion of the instructor.
201, 202. Intermediate Spanish
Review and intensified practice of language skills. Readings cover a wide range of topics in Spanish and Spanish American culture and literature. A native Spanish-speaking assistant serves as tutor for the course. Three class meetings and one or two laboratory sessions per week at the discretion of the instructor. Prerequisite: Spanish 102, appropriate placement score, or permission of the instructor.
301. Advanced Spanish Proficiency I
A course designed to improve reading and writing skills and to augment vocabulary through the use of literary and cultural texts, including film. Spanish grammar is thoroughly reviewed with emphasis on those elements of the structure of Spanish that are often the most troubling to non-native learners. Prerequisite: Spanish 202 or permission of the instructor.
302. Advanced Spanish Proficiency II
A continuation of 301, this course is designed especially to improve speaking and listening comprehension skills, again through the use of cultural and literary materials, including film. Emphasis will continue to be placed on vocabulary building and the review of Spanish grammar. Prerequisite: HPS 202 or the equivalent; HPS 302 may be taken before Spanish 301.
303. Introduction to the Literature of Spanish America
An introduction to the literature of Spanish America. This course provides students with the analytic tools that will facilitate the reading and interpretation of the literature of various Spanish American countries and their representative authors. The course includes works of poetry, drama, short story, novel and film. Prerequisite: HPS 202 or permission of the instructor.
304. Introduction to the Literature of Spain
An introduction to Spanish literature. This course provides students with the analytic tools that will facilitate the reading and interpretation of the literature of Spain and its representative authors. The course includes works of poetry, drama, short story, novel, and film. Prerequisite: HPS 202 or permission of the instructor.
307. Spanish for International Business
Designed to give students a foundation in the vocabulary of business and international trade and in the expression of basic business concepts in Spanish. Practice in presenting oral reports on business and cultural topics, in reading business reports and other texts of a cultural nature, and in writing various kinds of business correspondence, including résumés, memos, and letters. All materials are presented within a cultural context intended to expand the student's knowledge and understanding of the manners and mores of Spain and the Spanish-speaking republics of Latin America, as well as of demographic, geographic, and other data related to those nations. Prerequisite: HPS 202 or the equivalent, or permission of the instructor.
310. Introduction to Hispanic Linguistics
An introduction to the structural properties of Spanish: phonetics (the study of speech sounds), phonology (the study of the relations of speech sounds inside a communicative system), morphology (the study of word formation), syntax (the study of phrase structure), historical linguistics (the study of language evolution), and dialectology (the study of language variation). Prerequisite: HPS 301 or 302 or permission of the instructor.
194, 294, 394, 494. Special Topics in Hispanic Studies
The intensive study of a selected author, movement, genre, or theme in literature or film or a study of the culture of a particular period, region, or nation. Prerequisite: Spanish 303, 304 or permission of the instructor.
401. The Civilization of Spain
The course begins with a look at the geography of Spain, followed by a study of the early cultures that contributed to the formation of Spanish character and civilization. It continues with the a study of the evolution of Spain's civilization from the Middle Ages up to the present time. A major emphasis is on contemporary Spanish society, its institutions and forms of cultural expression. Prerequisite: HPS 303, 304 or permission of the instructor.
402. The Civilization of Spanish America
The course begins with consideration of the geography of the Spanish-speaking republics from Mexico through Central and South America and the Caribbean. It moves then to the study of the major pre-contact indigenous cultures (the Mayas, the Aztecs, and the Incas), continuing with the Spanish conquest and a study of colonial society and culture. It then moves to the struggle for independence from Spain and cultural developments in the 19th and 20th centuries. A major emphasis of the course is on general characteristics of Spanish American society, its institutions and forms of cultural expression in the contemporary period. Prerequisite: HPS 303, 304 or permission of the instructor.
405. Cervantes
An intensive study of the life and works of Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, with special emphasis on the Novelas ejemplares and El ingenioso hidalgo, Don Quijote de la Mancha.
410. History of Spanish
A study of the evolution (phonological, morphological, semantic and syntactic of spoken Latin into Castilian through the reading and analysis of medieval texts. The class will also consider the major historical events (social and political that contributed to the formation of modern Spanish. Prerequisite: HPS 301 or 302 or permission of the instructor.
411. The Hero/Anti-Hero in Spanish Literature
Spanning the medieval era to the present day, this course focuses on selective works of theatre, prose, and poetry reflecting the theme of the hero and anti-hero as it evolves in Spanish literature. Prerequisite: Spanish 303 or 304, or the equivalent.
413. The Quest for Identity in Spanish American Literature
This course explores the theme of identity and its pursuit in the literature of various Spanish American countries. The focus will be on the quest for both individual and collective identity, with particular emphasis on matters of gender, ethnicity, and nationalism. Although the primary focus is on literature of the twentieth century, works from the colonial period and the nineteenth century are also studied. Representative works from various literary genres as well as film are included. Prerequisite: Spanish 303, 304 or the equivalent.
190, 290, 390, 490. Internship
195, 295, 395, 495. On-campus Research
196, 296, 396, 496. Off-campus Research
197, 297, 397, 497. Independent Study
SCE. Senior Capstone Experiencein Hispanic Studies
The senior capstone seminar is required for graduation and is devoted to the completion of a thesis or other project or to preparation for a comprehensive examination in the field of Hispanic Studies. Senior Hispanic Studies majors register for this course in the last semester in which they have full-time status at the College. While much of the work is done by each student independently in consultation with a faculty advisor, there are occasional group meetings in which those students writing theses or developing other projects report on the progress of their work and in which students preparing for the comprehensive examination discuss the texts and other materials they are studying. All students will give a formal oral presentation in the target language before their peers and the faculty at the end of the seminar. Thesis students will present their research. Students who are taking the comprehensive examination will choose a topic for their presentation in consultation with the faculty advisor. The Senior Capstone Experiencewill be graded Pass, Fail or Honors.
Courses Offered In The Washington College Abroad Programs
102. Spanish II-Elementary/ Intermediate
Completion of basic Spanish. Increasing mastery of the basic skills of speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Offered in the Costa Rica program only, in the spring semester. Prerequisite: Spanish 202 or the equivalent. Three credits.201. Spanish III-Intermediate
Review of grammar, continued practice in speaking and writing, reading texts of average difficulty. Completion of Hispanic 202 satisfies the Arts and Science Foreign Language requirement. Offered in the Costa Rica program only, in the spring semester. (In Spanish.) Prerequisite: Spanish 102 or the equivalent. Three credits.301. Spanish Conversation
Practical use of Spanish by means of oral reports and discussions. Offered in the Costa Rica program only, in the spring semester. Three credits.301. Practical Oral/Written Expression
This course will help students to increase their fluency and vocabulary. Grammar review will focus on special problems. Offered in the Granada, Spain, program only, in the fall semester. Three credits.302. Advanced Spanish Language
An advanced course on grammatical structure and stylistics with special attention given to technical vocabulary and discourse. Offered in the Granada, Spain, program only, in the fall semester. Three credits.308. Contemporary Spain
Discussion and study of issues related to contemporary culture, political, and social developments in Spain, including its place in the European community. The topics discussed include the role of the monarchy, regional autonomy, the role of political parties, geography, economics and industry, the historic roots of contemporary Spain, education, literature and the arts. Offered in the Granada, Spain, program only, in the fall semester. (In Spanish.) Prerequisite: Hispanic 202 or the equivalent. Three credits.309. Contemporary Latin American Civilization and Culture
This course will present students with the elements for a better understanding of contemporary Latin American culture through the analysis of the historical processes that have contributed to its formation. Latin America is studied as a region that has been the meeting ground for diverse cultures throughout its history. Special attention is given to the fusion of indigenous, European, and African cultures which began in the sixteenth century. The nineteenth century is seen as the period of the forging of national identities, while emphasis in the twentieth century is on the consequences of the rapid political, economic, and social changes, as well as changes in cultural patterns, traditions, and values. Offered in the Costa Rica program only, in the spring semester. (In Spanish.) Prerequisite: Hispanic 202 or the equivalent. Three credits.494. Special Topics
Explores an area of special interest in Spanish literature or culture studies. Specific topic to be determined. Offered in the Granada, Spain, program only, in the fall semester. Three credits.495. Selected Authors, Works, and Themes
Works of one or more outstanding authors or on a special theme. Specific topic to be determined. Offered in the Granada, Spain, program only, in the fall semester. Three credits.International Literature And Culture
Students pursuing the interdisciplinary major in International Literature and Culture will complete nine upper-level courses chosen in consultation with their advisor from among course offerings in this department or related courses in other disciplines as outlined below. In addition they will successfully complete the Senior Capstone seminar (See below.) The prerequisites for the major are completion of ANT 105 Introduction to Anthropology and study of a foreign language through the 202 level (or demonstration of proficiency at that level). The major courses must include FLS 200 Introduction to Language and at least one of the following Anthropology courses: ANT 215, ANT 235, ANT 320 and ANT 355. Of the remaining seven, at least four should be selected from the upper-level offerings in a foreign language, literature or culture in this department or at study abroad sites. At least two of these must be at the 400-level.
If students are pursuing study in a language in which Washington College does not offer upper-level courses, culturally relevant courses in other disciplines taught in English may be substituted as necessary. The remaining three courses may be chosen from among the International Literature and Culture courses (ILC) offered by this Department or appropriate courses from other departments or programs (such as History, Art, Music, Drama, Philosophy, Humanities). With the help of the advisor, students will design their major to focus on a language or culture, a particular theme (such as gender or ethnicity), a historical period, or a particular literary genre or form of cultural expression (such as the novel, poetry, drama, film, art, or music). Students may choose Italian, Japanese, or Arabic cultural studies as the central focus of their major in International Literature and Culture by combining appropriate study abroad with courses that are available on campus in those fields.
Majors must successfully complete the Senior Capstone Experience, during which they will produce a thesis or other project related closely to the focus of the major. The project or thesis may be written in English or in the foreign language. Students will also give a formal oral presentation of their thesis or project before their peers and faculty, again either in English or the foreign language. The Senior Capstone Experiencewill be graded Pass, Fail or Honors. International Literature and Culture majors are strongly urged to engage in a study abroad experience.
Courses Taught In English
305. Introduction to the Film
The study of film as an art form. Special attention will be given to the various dimensions of film structure and criticism, with emphasis upon foreign language films (with English subtitles). Selected films will be viewed and analyzed.
306. French Literature in Translation
Study of a selected author, movement, genre, or theme. Open to all students.
307. German Literature in Translation
Devoted to selected themes in German literature. Recent topics have included the study of the myth of Dr. Faustus; a reading of texts by Marx, Nietzsche, and Freud; literature of the holocaust; and treatment of German literature in the medium of German film. Open to all students.
308. Spanish and Latin American Literature in Translation
A study of a selected author, movement, genre, or theme from the literature of Spain, the Spanish-speaking republics of Latin America, and Brazil. Topics taught in this course have included the works of Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, Hispanic Women Writers, The Quest for Identity in Latin American Literature, and War and Revolution in the Literatures of Spain and Latin America.
311. Contemporary France
This course provides an introductory historical and cultural study of contemporary France. Students will be provided tools for cultural interpretation via critical texts and the analysis of French films and their American remakes; they will then apply them to the cultural history of France. We will explore the impact of World War II, of the student protests of May '68, and of women's emancipation movements. We will examine France's position in the world—its past as a colonizing nation, its present post-colonial actions, and its multicultural identity enriched by different waves of immigration. We will study the political and economic roles of women, their place in the family, health concerns, and struggles for autonomy through works by women. This course counts toward the French major and minor if the journal entries, mid-term exam, and final paper are written in French. Prerequisite: FRS 202 or permission of the instructor.
312. The Contemporary Francophone World
This course provides an introductory historical and cultural study of the contemporary Francophone world. Designed as a survey of the non-European Francophone world, it will offer for study both literary and cultural documents from the Caribbean, North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Canada. Initially students will be provided tools for cultural interpretation via critical texts, media analysis (including print and Internet sources) and the analysis of Francophone films; they will then apply them to the cultural history of the Francophone world. We will explore French colonization, the process of decolonization, and subsequent independence movements. We will examine social, political, and economic roles of both women and men, changing gender roles, and contemporary divisions of labor. Finally, we will reflect on the political, historical, and socio-cultural situations of post-colonial Francophone nations. Prerequisite: FRS 202 or permission of the instructor.
317. Mexico, Ancient and Modern
A study of the historical, political, and literary evolution of Mexico from the Pre-Colombian period to the present. In addition to historical texts, the course will include readings from Pre-Colombian poetry (Maya and Aztec), The True History of the Conquest of New Spain by Bernal Dìaz del Castillo, the poetic and autobiographical writings of Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, The Itching Parrot by Fernàndez de Lizardi, The Underdogs by Mariano Azuela, and works by such contemporary writers as Rosario Castellanos, Juan Rulfo, Carlos Fuentes, and Laura Esquivel. Also included is Octavio Paz's classic analysis of Mexican national character and culture, The Labyrinth of Solitude.
413. The Film in Spain and Latin America
A study of the film as art form and as social and cultural document in Spain, Spanish America, and Brazil. The thematic focus of this course and the films included will vary. Important topics include gender issues, the quest for identity, and freedom versus repression. Prerequisite: ILC 305 or permission of the instructor.
194, 294, 394, 494. Special Topics in International Literature and Culture
Study of a selected topic within a single national literature or culture, or a comparative study across cultures. Recent and planned offerings include: Perspectives on International Film; Food in Film, Literature and Culture; Shakespeare and Cervantes (Honors); The Big City in Literature and Film; Love and the Ideal in European Literature and Film; and The Reception of the Middle Ages.
SCE. Senior Capstone Experiencein International Literature and Culture
The senior capstone seminar is required for graduation and is devoted to the completion of a thesis or other project in the field of International Literature and Culture. Senior ILC majors register for this course in the last semester in which they have full-time status at the College. While much of the work is done by each student independently in consultation with a faculty advisor, there are occasional group meetings in which students discuss their respective theses or other projects. All students will give a formal oral presentation of their thesis or project before their peers and the faculty at the end of the seminar. Both written and oral work may be presented in English or in the foreign language. The Senior Capstone Experiencewill be graded Pass, Fail or Honors.
Other Courses
FLS 101, 102. Elementary Language Study (Tutorial)
Students may enroll in this course to study a language that is not part of the regular curriculum of the Department of Foreign Languages, Literatures, and Cultures. Permission to study the language under this independent study/tutorial arrangement depends upon the availability of an appropriate tutor for the language requested. Students who study a language in this program are strongly urged to follow up such study by participating in at least one semester of study abroad in a country where the language is spoken. Permission of department chair required.
FLS 200. Introduction to Language
This course will introduce the student to the study of linguistics. Concepts of both historical and descriptive linguistics are included. Some of the areas of study are: linguistic history and methodology, language origin, language and society, language structure, dialects and language families. The course is open to all students.
FLS 194, 294, 394, 494. Special Topics in Foreign Language Studies
FLS 400. Romance Linguistics
A comparative overview of the Romance language family. Topics include the evolution, variation, and structural characteristics of these languages. Also considered are the sociopolitical factors favoring the linguistic autonomy accorded to some languages but not to others. Taught in English. Prerequisites: 300-level HPS or FRS, Italian 201 or permission of the instructor.
FLS 490. Foreign Language Internship
Designed to provide students with pre-professional experience in fields in which their language proficiency is an essential asset. The specific internship experiences will vary. They include placement of Hispanic Studies students with public health and social service agencies, as well as in the local school systems as instructional aids with ESOL students. Interested students should consult the department chair.
ARA 101,102. Elementary Arabic I and II
An introduction to Arabic, this course offers an integrated approach to basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The class meets three days per week, and classwork is supplemented by one or two weekly laboratory sessions, at the discretion of the instructor. The course is accompanied by a continuous video narrative which is presented as the basic text and the context for each new grammatical concept as it is introduced.
CHN 101, 102. Elementary Chinese
An introduction to Mandarin Chinese, this course offers an integrated approach to basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Classwork is supplemented by laboratory periods which include practice with language tapes and video tapes. Discussion of a graded series of cultural topics promotes students' understanding of Chinese life and society and aids language learning. Three class meetings and one or two laboratory sessions per week at the discretion of the instructor. Not currently offered.
CHN 201, 202. Intermediate Chinese
This course will review and build upon language skills acquired in the introductory course to Mandarin Chinese. It offers an integrated approach to basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The class will meet three days per week, plus a laboratory period. The laboratory includes practice with audio- and videotapes. Graded readings on topics related to Chinese life and society serve as an aid to language learning and provide an introduction to Chinese culture. Prerequisite: Chinese 102 or the equivalent. Not currently offered.
ITA 101, 102. Elementary Italian
Designed for beginning students and aimed at developing skills in listening comprehension, speaking, reading and writing Italian. Emphasis on communication through intensive aural/oral practice, basic composition, and awareness of cultural context. Three class meetings and one or two laboratory sessions per week at the discretion of the instructor.
ITA 201, 202. Intermediate Italian
Continued emphasis on the four basic skills. Intensive aural/oral practice. Review and continued study of grammar, expansion of vocabulary, and their application to writing. Readings devoted to a wide range of topics in Italian culture. Class discussion of contemporary issues and cultural topics. Class meets three days per week with one additional laboratory session.
JPN 101, 102. Elementary Japanese
The course aims at the acquisition of communicative competence in the four basic language skills—listening comprehension, speaking, reading and writing in contemporary Japanese. The emphasis is on thorough mastery of the basic structures of Japanese through student-centered, aural-oral exercises and practice, and on an introduction to Japanese culture. Three class meetings per week, plus one or two drill sessions at the discretion of the instructor.
JPN 201, 202. Intermediate Japanese
The course aims at further development in communicative competence in the four basic language skills—listening comprehension, speaking, reading and writing in contemporary Japanese. The emphasis is again on thorough mastery of basic structures of Japanese through student-centered aural-oral exercises. Continued practice in reading and writing Japanese in a cultural context. Three class meetings per week, plus one or two drill sessions at the discretion of the instructor.
POR 101, 102. Elementary Portuguese
Designed for beginning students and aimed at developing skill in listening comprehension, speaking, reading and writing Brazilian Portuguese. Emphasis on communication through intensive aural/oral practice, basic composition, and awareness of cultural context. Three class meetings and one or two laboratory sessions per week at the discretion of the instructor.
Courses Offered In The Washington College Abroad Programs
FLS 321. International Communication: Applications in International Contexts
Students critically assess current intercultural communications theory and apply that theory to practical situations in various international contexts. The contents of the course are intended to provide the student with the analytical tools contributed by social scientists to understand issues related to interpersonal communications in a second culture. Topics include human communication theory, codes and semantics, beliefs and values, the individual and society, social roles, the social construction of reality, and second culture. Offered in the Costa Rica program only, in the spring semester. (In English.) Three credits.
ILC 494. Topics: Hispanic Literature in Translation
A study of the works of one or more outstanding authors or of a special theme. Course will be taught in English. Topics vary and are announced in registration booklet. Offered in the Costa Rica program only, in the spring semester. Three credits.
Italian Studies
201. Intermediate Italian I
Study of Italian language with emphasis on the four skills: speaking, listening comprehension, reading, and writing. Includes oral discussion of current topics related to Italian culture. Offered in the Siena, Italy, program only, in the spring semester. Prerequisite: One year of Italian language. Three credits.
202. Intermediate Italian II
Study of Italian language with special emphasis on reading proficiency and composition. Readings of dramatic and prose texts, including works by Luigi Pirandello, Dario Fo, and Domenico Starnone. Offered in the Siena, Italy, program only, in the spring semester. Prerequisite: Italian 201. Three credits.
301. Advanced Italian
Designed to increase the student's proficiency in Italian, in speaking, listening comprehension, reading, and writing. The content of the course (used as a basis for conversation and composition) will be contemporary Italian culture. Some of the topics will include: the family, social structure, problems and industrialism, ecological issues, racism, film, and music. Offered in the Siena, Italy, program only, in the spring semester. Prerequisite: Italian 202 or the equivalent. Three credits.
302. Advanced Italian
This course is designed to develop oral and written proficiency at the advanced level. Included is the study of patterns and structures, exercises in written and oral expression, and grammar review. Offered in the Siena, Italy, program only, in the spring semester. Prerequisite: Intermediate Italian 202. Three credits.
308. Contemporary Italy
The course will introduce the student to various aspects of contemporary Italian culture. At the same time it emphasizes the continuing development of the student's language skills. Materials used come from newspapers, magazines, books, television, and movies. Topics include Italian identity and character, politics, religion, family and gender issues, immigration, the role of the media, and the arts. Offered in the Siena, Italy, program only, in the spring semester. (In Italian.) Prerequisite: Italian 202 or the equivalent. Three credits.
491. Special Topics in Italian Literature
This course will deal with a particular period, author, or theme in Italian literature. Offered in the Siena, Italy, program only, in the spring semester. (In Italian.) Prerequisite: Italian 301-302 or the equivalent. Three credits.
492. Special Topics in Italian Literature
Study of a particular theory, author or authors, or genre in Italian literature. Offered in the Siena, Italy, program only, in the spring semester. (In Italian.) Prerequisite: Italian 301, 302 or the equivalent. Three credits.
South African Studies
100. Elementary Xhosa
This course is designed for beginning students. The emphasis is on practical proficiency in speaking and reading/writing Xhosa, a Bantu language. A range of linguistic and cultural topics relevant to Xhosa and the African languages of Southern Africa. Offered at Rhodes University, South Africa.
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