Montaigne and Modernity (334-0-20)

Instructors

Cynthia Nyree Nazarian
847/491-8270
1860 S. Campus Drive, Crowe Hall #2-137

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 3-410: Mon, Wed 9:30AM - 10:50AM

Overview of class

Michel de Montaigne was one of the most important writers and philosophers of the early modern period; his Essais continues to be a book to live by. This seminar explores Montaigne's writings in depth, along with those of his most important interlocutors, in the context of the emergence of modern subjectivity in the period we call "Renaissance". Placing the distant past into conversation with the present, we will consider a set of problems relative to the constitution of the self, of the body, of cultural and gender identity, educational ideals, and political freedom. We will explore the rise of cultural norms surrounding death, love, friendship, faith, and violence. Montaigne's writings are a gateway into a turbulent and transformative period of history, one which has much to say to our own.

* * This class was previously offered as French 333. See French 333 for CTECs.**

Teaching Method

All readings, discussion and papers in French.

Class Materials (Required)

Michel de Montaigne, Essais. 3vol. Paris: Gallimard, 2009. ISBN: 9782070398973. If the set is unavailable, purchase the three volumes separately:
A) Volume 1: ISBN: 9782070423811
B) Volume 2: ISBN: 9782070423828
C) Volume 3: ISBN: 9782070423835

Class Attributes

Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: Students must have completed FRENCH 271-0, FRENCH 272-0, or FRENCH 273-0. Other students may register with instructor permission.