French 321
Topics I: In-Perspective: Paris, Depicted
City of Lights, City of Love, city of countless inviting images, Paris captivates us in literature, film, art, architecture, and photography. We will consider why Paris features so prominently as a backdrop for contemporary stories of love, gastronomy, fashion, and intrigue. Looking beyond stereotypes, we will consider the beauty and historic impact of Paris in relation to other cultural capitals: Versailles and Amsterdam in the 17th century; Rome and Saigon in modern times. We will explore how, since the 19th century, Paris rivals New York as a center of influence, even as both cities struggle with the challenges of social exclusion, gentrification, immigration, and the environment. Our study of Paris will bring together magnificent palaces; fashion and design; engineering marvels (the Pont Neuf; the Eiffel Tower) and urban renewal; cityscapes by impressionist painters and celebrated photographers. Based on short readings, films, and an image archive. Some Paris/NY works assigned in English; class discussion in French. Prereq: 307D. Priority given to students who have not yet taken an In-Perspective course. This course satisfies the prerequisite for study abroad and upper 300-level courses.
Instructors
Reviews
Dr. Allen is great! Her course is a little disorganized but overall interesting. She is a tough grader but will work with you and give good feedback.
12/13/2022
Do not take her class if you do not need to. Have never felt so disrespected by a professor in my life. She has a very apparent lack of empathy, constantly cold calls, and teaches on topics that are boring. Her criteria for grades is also extremely unclear and she will dock you for not following directions she simply never gave.
3/3/2022
Really a great teacher!!! I was ready to stop taking French until I took his class. The classes are straightforward, engaging, and have a clear purpose. (think abt how few classes are like that, esp in French). The readings are difficult enough to be interesting, but he breaks them down in class so I actually always understand them. take his class!
10/8/2018
She is very strict, and yes, a little mean, but she is really interesting to listen to, and is always willing to explain things if you don't understand. But god help you if you have three or more absences - she will crucify you.
11/21/2005
Prof. Stone can be very intimidating and grades pretty strictly. But she was one of the best teachers I had at WashU. She really expects a lot from her students, so you have to be willing to put a lot of work into it.
10/18/2005