This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
Among the capital cities of Europe, Paris has a particularly rich and exciting history. It played, for example, a key role during the revolution of 1789 and subsequent political upheavals in the course of the 19th century. This module explores the different and evolving representations of Paris from the 19th century to the present day. The changing cityscape of Paris will be examined as mediated through architecture, films, visual arts (Impressionist and Cubist paintings of Paris), poetry, and fiction. Thematic focuses of the module include: conditions of life in Paris across the centuries; architectural changes, including the major transformations brought about by Baron Haussmann's city planning in the mid-nineteenth century; immigrant experience in Paris; social and urban change.
Total Contact Hours: 20
Private Study Hours: 130
Total Study Hours: 150
Main assessment methods
Critical Writing Exercise (500 words) – 20%
Presentation (20 minutes) – 20%
Essay (2,400 words) – 60%
Reassessment methods
Reassessment Instrument: 100% Coursework
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices. The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages: https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate a critical appreciation of a wide range of literary, visual, and filmic works produced in France and representing Paris and its transformations from the 19th to the 21st centuries;
2 Explore the literary, artistic, filmic and historical background of different works; assess and critically analyse the complex links between Paris as a real city and its representation by writers, artists, and filmmakers;
3 Undertake critical analysis relating to French literary texts and other cultural artefacts;
4 Evaluate the appropriateness of different analytical approaches to French poetry, painting, fiction and film, and apply these techniques effectively in a coherent argument.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate effective communication skills and organise information in a clear and coherent fashion;
2 Write cogent, well-constructed essays supported by textual evidence;
3 Demonstrate a well-developed capacity to take responsibility for their own personal and professional learning and development;
4 Synthesise and critically evaluate information from a number of sources (problem solving);
5 Deploy a range of IT skills with a high degree of effectiveness, such as use of online search-engines, word-processing text with footnotes, basic formatting, searching databases and text files.
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.