LFU:online

Knowledge of the plays by Beaumarchais; analysis of drama on the basis of a precise terminology; contextualization of the works of Beaumarchais with regard to the literary and political history of the 18^th century in France.

The seminar is dedicated to three plays by the French playwright Beaumarchais which form a trilogy centered on the protagonist Figaro, a barber and former valet who has come to be one of the most popular characters in French literary history. The trilogy is composed of the plays Le Barbier de Séville (1775), Le Mariage de Figaro (1784) and La mère coupable (1792). The seminar will take a double perspective on these plays: first it will analyze the construction of the plays and their signifying components (characters, action, space, dramaturgy, …); second it will relate the works to the historical context of the 18^th century, particularly to the French Revolution.

Student’s presentation; text analysis and discussion; group work.

Criteria of evaluation: (1) Readings (theoretical and literary texts). (2) Regular and active participation. (3) Presentation. (4) Written term paper.

All students are requested to buy the three plays that are available in a pocket edition for a reasonable price (recommended edition: René Pomeau at publisher Flammarion (ISBN 2080700766)). The remaining texts and a bibliography will be provided at the beginning of the term.

Due to substantial differences in the allocation of ECTS-Credits in various curricula (teacher training programs/specialized degree programs), the requirements for this course vary. Information will be provided by the instructor at the beginning of the course.