FREN 3320

The Dark Side of French Absolutism: A Study of Religious Intolerance, Misogyny, Murder and Slavery

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2022-2023.

While the 17th century is extolled as the period of France's greatest cultural achievements (Architecutre-Versailles-, Theater, Painting, philosophy) as well as its military and political triumphs, we will explore the underside of these triumphs. Did the same social contract that aided these great works also contribute to religious intolerance (persecution of the Huguenots), witch hunting, the proliferation of poisoners, and the development of the infamous "Code Noir" which legalized and codified slavery in France's prosperous colonies (Haiti, Martinique, Louisiana)? We will read both some of the great literary production of the period as well as trial documents of witches, poisoners, religious tracts and, of course, the "Code Noir" to form a more balanced picture of the "Splendid Century."

When Offered Spring.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: FREN 2310 or CASE Q++ or permission of instructor.

Breadth Requirement (HB)
Distribution Category (HST-AS, LA-AS)
Language Requirement Satisfies Option 1.

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