The History of Modern France
Spring 2010
Modern French history stands out for being particularly dramatic. Few national histories have more contention, revolution, regime changes, debate over the fundamentals of political life, tragic defeats, and rapid recoveries. Through lectures and readings, this course will survey the events in France since 1789 and examine why France has had such a tumultuous history. Topics that will receive special attention will include: the long term impact of the French Revolution, the evolving place of France in the world, and the changing meanings of Frenchness. We will also look at why the French perceive themselves as so different from Americans and why there is such a high level of distrust between peoples who actually have a great deal in common.
The reading will consist of a textbook (Jeremy Popkin, A History of Modern France) and 4 or 5 more specialized books. Students will take a mid-term exam and a final exam and write either one or two papers. The course will have a lecture format interspersed with frequent class discussions of readings.
Even if you do not have a background in modern European history, you should feel comfortable taking this class.
The reading will consist of a textbook (Jeremy Popkin, A History of Modern France) and 4 or 5 more specialized books. Students will take a mid-term exam and a final exam and write either one or two papers. The course will have a lecture format interspersed with frequent class discussions of readings.
Even if you do not have a background in modern European history, you should feel comfortable taking this class.
