10 French Women Who Changed History

In this class we'll explore the lives of 10 extraordinary French women who changed the course of French history. Eleanor of Aquitaine and Joan of Arc will teach us how to win wars and hearts to one's cause; Olympe de Gouges and George Sand will revolutionize our understanding of "universal" rights and freedom; Coco Chanel and Edith Piaf will refine our artistic and musical senses; Simone de Beauvoir and Simone Veil will show us that political and social reforms are in our hands; and so forth. To understand these women and their lives, we will read historical texts and fictional works written by them and about them, both modern and ancient; we will also watch documentaries (original and contemporary), movie excerpts and dramatic representations. Taught in English.