Alterity and proximity of medieval literature

Classroom

During classes we will be analyzing the most important literary texts of the French Middle Ages wondering whether they belong only to the history of literature, or whether their lively receipt is also possible. So we will be trying to emphasize their timeless dimension, concerning such issues, as the place of the individual in the society, expression of emotions, body image, forming of the identity, family relations, spiritual search, attitude towards the death, meaning of the relation with the second person.

During classes we will be analyzing the most important literary texts of the French Middle Ages wondering, whether they belong only to the history of literature or whether their lively receipt is also possible - and if yes, it on what principles. For that purpose it will be necessary to separate aspects deciding about the medieval specificity from the ones which are undergoing new interpretations. So, matters resulting from social and cultural specific conditions, concerning ways of creating, the storage and the reception of medieval literature will be discussed: mutual permeation orality and literacy, the role of the author, the scribe and the juggler. We will also examine some closely literary issues , so as different ways of expressing meanings and the space left for interpretation. Above all however we will be trying to emphasize the timeless dimension of texts, concerning such issues, as the place of the individual in the society, expression of emotion, body image, forming of the identity, family relations, spiritual search, attitude forwards death, meaning of the relation with the second person.

Chrétien de Troyes, Percewal albo opowieść o Graalu

Marie de France, Lais

Szaleństwo Tristana

Rutebeuf, Dits

François Villon, Testament

After completing the seminar, the student:

- knows the principles of analysis and interpretation of medieval literary texts to an advanced degree (K_W09);

- knows at an advanced level selected facts, processes and phenomena in the field of medieval culture and history of the countries of the French-speaking cultural area (K_W10);

- knows how to plan and prepare oral presentations in French, referring to the basic theoretical approaches appropriate to literary studies in the field of medieval literature (K_U05);

- knows how to prepare a written work in French, referring to the basic theoretical approaches appropriate to literary studies in the field of medieval literature (K_U06)

- is ready to critically evaluate his own knowledge and skills (K_K01)

- is ready to take care of cultural heritage, especially in relation to French and francophone culture (K_K04).

Activity in the class

Tests

Essay

Oral examination