Bard College at Simon's Rock: the Early College
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French & Francophone Studies

This concentration is designed for students interested in achieving mastery of French language beyond the basic level. Along with their study of French language, students in the concentration also study the literature, culture, history, and politics of Europe and the francophone world.

The concentration in French and Francophone studies can help prepare students for graduate study in French or comparative literature, or careers in a variety of fields, including international relations, business, journalism, political science, and foreign service. Students who complete this concentration will acquire strong communicative skills in the language (listening, speaking, reading, and writing). In addition, they will be able to function efficiently in a French-speaking environment and gain insight into the cultures and customs of the Francophone world.

The choice of electives will be determined in part by the student’s particular focus and goals in studying French. Students with a linguistic focus might complement their work in French with study in a second world language to the intermediate or advanced level. Those interested in cross-cultural studies might take Anthropology or Politics courses to explore the complex landscape of colonialism and the areas where French influence persists, such as in Africa, the Caribbean and South America, and North America including Québec.

Related Career Paths

Students with a concentration in French & Francophone Studies may enter into fields such as international relations, business, journalism, political science, history, and foreign service.

Course Spotlight

Faculty member Maryanne Tebben poses in her office.

French 217: Paris on the Page

This course will explore the city of Paris as the center of French culture and as a world capital. Course materials will investigate the physical and cultural essence of Paris, its history and architecture, its literary portrait, and its relevance in the present day. The course will cover Parisian history from the Middle Ages to the present, including images of Paris from Victor Hugo’s Notre Dame and Louis XIV’s Versailles to Haussmann’s reconception of the city.

Community Profiles

Marisa Benitez

Heading Abroad on a Fulbright. I’m Only 19, but I’m Ready.

Marisa Benitez

Political Science and French/Francophone Studies

 

Maryann Tebben in office

Teaching at the Intersection of Food, Culture, and Community.

Maryann Tebben

Professor of French/Francophone and Food Studies

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