The aim of this course is two-fold: it will introduce students to the autobiographical genre, and will also help them improve their analytical and writing skills in French. We will explore the various types of particular fantasies (fantasmes) that underly autobiographical texts. Students will also produce their own autobiographical narrations. Readings will include essays by Philippe Lejeune, Les Mots by Jean-Paul Sartre, W ou le souvenir d'enfance by Georges Pérec, and Enfance by Nathalie Sarraute.



Required Text:

Les Mots, Jean-Paul Sartre, Gallimard (Folio)

Enfance, Nathalie Sarraute, Gallimard (Folio)

W ou le souvenir d’enfance, Georges Perec, Gallimard (L’imaginaire).