This course delves into the emergence of modern France through a comprehensive examination of key themes and events. Topics covered include:
Through a combination of historical figures and the lives of ordinary people, students will gain a nuanced understanding of France's journey since 1871.
This introductory module sets the stage for the course by presenting an overview of the syllabus and key texts. Professor Merriman will discuss:
Students will understand the multifaceted nature of French history and the themes that will be explored throughout the course.
The Paris Commune of 1871 serves as a pivotal moment in French history, representing revolutionary fervor and its aftermath. This module will cover:
Students will analyze the Commune's legacy and its implications for future political ideologies in France.
This module examines the evolution of the French state into a centralized republic, shaped by historical events. Key topics include:
Students will assess how centralization has influenced regional identities and political dynamics in France.
This module investigates the development of French national identity, particularly in rural areas. Students will explore:
By examining these elements, students will understand the nuanced relationship between national and regional identities in France.
This module focuses on the evolving role of religion in France post-Revolution. Key discussions include:
Students will analyze how these changes affected social values and individual beliefs throughout modern French history.
This module examines the effects of the Industrial Revolution on French society, emphasizing the role of artisan workers. Key points include:
Students will understand the broader societal impacts of industrialization beyond mere factory work.
This module delves into the rise of mass politics and socialism in France, focusing on the ideological divide between revolutionary and reformist socialists. Key discussions include:
Students will learn about the complexities and conflicts within the socialist movement that influenced French politics.
This module examines the anarchist movement in France during the late nineteenth century. Key topics include:
Students will analyze the motivations and consequences of anarchist actions within the broader political landscape of France.
This module focuses on two major crises in nineteenth-century France: the Boulanger Affair and the Dreyfus Affair. Discussions will cover:
Students will analyze how these events reflect the tensions in French society during this era.
This module examines the cultural significance of cafes and alcohol in French society. Key discussions include:
Students will gain insights into how alcohol shapes social interactions and cultural identity in France.
This module explores the transformation of Paris during the Belle Ãpoque, emphasizing urban development and class division. Key topics include:
Students will analyze how urban planning and industrialization shaped social dynamics in modern Paris.
This module examines the role of French imperialism in shaping national identity and cultural self-presentation. Key discussions include:
Students will analyze how colonialism influenced France's identity and its perception on the global stage.
This module investigates the origins of World War I, emphasizing the diplomatic landscape of Europe. Key topics include:
Students will assess how these factors contributed to the outbreak of war and shaped European history.
This module examines the experience of trench warfare during World War I, focusing on its psychological and physical toll. Key points include:
Students will analyze how these experiences influenced public perception and collective memory of the war.
This module focuses on the home front in France during World War I, particularly in the pivotal year of 1917. Discussions will include:
Students will assess how these factors shaped the public sentiment and political landscape during and after the war.
This module explores the themes of grief and memory in the aftermath of World War I. Key discussions include:
Students will analyze how collective grief influenced national identity and memory in post-war France.
This module investigates the emergence of the Popular Front in France, focusing on the political climate after World War I. Key topics include:
Students will analyze how the Popular Front shaped political discourse and labor rights in France.
This module examines Vichy France, focusing on collaboration with the Nazis during World War II. Key points include:
Students will analyze how Vichy France's legacy has influenced contemporary French politics and identity.
This module explores the nature of resistance in France during World War II. Key discussions include:
Students will analyze how these elements shaped the narrative of resistance in France and its historical significance.
This module investigates the post-war sentiments towards Americanization in France. Key topics include:
Students will analyze how these dynamics have shaped contemporary French attitudes toward American influence.
This module examines the complexities of France's colonial territories, particularly Algeria, post-World War II. Key discussions include:
Students will analyze how these colonial legacies continue to affect contemporary French political life and identity.
This module focuses on Charles de Gaulle's influence in postwar France, exploring his political and symbolic significance. Key discussions include:
Students will analyze how de Gaulle's legacy continues to shape contemporary perceptions of leadership and national identity in France.
This module explores the student protests of May 1968 in France, connecting them to broader international movements. Key topics include:
Students will analyze the impact of May 1968 on French cultural and political landscapes.
This module examines the challenges posed by immigration and European unification in contemporary France. Key discussions include:
Students will analyze the complexities of immigration in shaping contemporary French society and culture.