Crossing borders in French medieval literature

Classroom

The seminar will be devoted to the analysis of the theme of the border and its crossing in the French medieval literature. We will focus on the borders significant for the expression of the different areas of medieval culture and mentality: between the real and magical world, human and animal, earthly and divine, sacred and profane. We will talk about mystical experience, profanation and transgression of social and moral norms, and about changes accompanying these phenomena. The thematic approach will be related to a formal analysis regarding the crossing of the limits of literary conventions by the discussed authors .

The seminar will be devoted to the analysis of the theme of the border and its crossing in the French medieval literature. We will take into account all possible views of the subject, showing both literal and material as well as symbolic boundaries. We will have the opportunity to reflect on the very meaning of the border and its crossing for culture. We will consider with special attention boundaries that are important for defining main areas of medieval culture and mentality: between the real and magical world, human and animal, earthly and divine, sacred and profane. We will talk about mystical experience, profanation and transgression of social and moral norms, and about changes accompanying these phenomena. The thematic approach will be related to a formal analysis regarding the crossing of the limits of literary conventions by the authors discussed.

- Fabliaux

- Life of Judah

- Tristan's folly

- Jean Bodel, Le Congé

- Beatrix de Die, Bieris de Romans, poems

- Marguerite d'Oingt, Letters

After completing the classes, the student :

has a structured knowledge of the basic processes taking place in the field of French medieval literature

has an elementary knowledge of the methodology of research on medieval literature

is able to analyse and interpret literary texts himself,

is able to draw up a short text, correctly in terms of content and language, on a given subject within the scope of the issues to be discussed,

has the ability to express himself/herself in a structured way on subjects related to the classes,

has the ability to use a variety of sources and methods, including modern information technology, to search, analyse, evaluate, select and use information necessary to participate in classes.

Activity in the class

Tests

Essay

Oral examination