B.A. (French Studies) XVIII Century French Literature Illustrated by One Literary Work Syllabus - Mumbai University

Description of the course

This course offers an introduction to 18th- century French literature through a close reading of Voltaire’s Zadig / Candide. Including but not limited to Enlightenment thought, satire, philosophical inquiry, and narrative technique, the course examines how Voltaire’s fiction reflects and critiques the values of his time.

Course objectives

• 1. To explore major themes of the Enlightenment—reason, tolerance, and critique of authority—through Voltaire’s works.
• 2. To analyze the use of satire and irony as literary tools in 18th-century France.
• 3. To understand the historical, philosophical, and cultural context surrounding Zadig and Candide.
• 4. To develop skills in literary interpretation, argumentation, and critical reading in French or in translation.

Course outcomes

• CO 1 To understand the interrelation between literature, culture and society.
• CO 2 To apply critical theories and concepts to understand a literary piece.
• CO 3 To acquire writing skills in simple literary analysis and criticism.
• CO 4 To equip students to stylistically analyze a text.

Module 1: Study about the Author 1 credit

Module 2: Study the literary works of the author 1 credit

Module 3: Storyline and structure of the literary work 1 credit

Module 4: Writing style and character sketch 1 credit

Text Books

• Voltaire: Zadig / Candide

Reference Books

• Lagarde, A. & Micharde, L. (1962). XIX e siècle. Bordas