Studies in the 16Th Century (420-0-20)

Instructors

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

Meeting Info

University Hall 312: Tues 9:30AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

This seminar explores the intersections of literature and social commentary in Renaissance France and Europe. The 16th century saw the heights of humanism and the progression to what we now call early modernity. Using the works of François Rabelais and Michel de Montaigne as poles who exemplify these two moments, we will examine the tools with which literature probes the world. What literary techniques make up the central engines of social commentary? How do texts construct a self and others as vehicles for critique? How do laughter, skepticism and vituperation enable and/or challenge critical interpretation? We will also read works by Thomas More, Desiderius Erasmus, Etienne de la Boétie, Pico della Mirandola, Niccolò Machiavelli and others. In addition to our early modern texts, this class will also include discussion of issues and best practices in academic research and the profession. Class discussions will be in English. French-department students are required to read primary texts in French.

Teaching Method

Seminar

Class Materials (Required)

French editions: Michel de Montaigne, Essais, vol.1-2. Folio classique (Gallimard, 2009). ISBNs: 9782070423811; 9782070423828; Volume 3 is optional; François Rabelais, Gargantua. Editions du Seuil (Points), 1996. ISBN: 9782020300322; François Rabelais, Pantagruel. Editions du Seuil, (Points) 1996. ISBN: 9782020300339. English editions: François Rabelais, Gargantua and Pantagruel. M. Screech, trans. Penguin Classics, 2006. ISBN: 9780140445503; Michel de Montaigne, Essays. D. Frame, trans. Stanford, 1958. ISBN: 9780804704861

Class Materials (Suggested)

• Michel de Montaigne, Essais, vol.3. Folio classique (Gallimard, 2009). ISBN: 9782070423835.