Journeys in the French-Speaking Caribbean
Journeys in the French-Speaking Caribbean
(07) Journeys in the French-Speaking Caribbean - Harry Gamble, Department of French
In this seminar, students will explore the complex history and diverse encounters that have shaped Haiti, Martinique, and Guadeloupe. These Caribbean lands will be situated and studied within the broad context of the Atlantic world, with special emphasis on intersections with France and the United States. Themes to be developed include: the slave trade and French colonialism; the Haitian Revolution and national experience; the place of Martinique and Guadeloupe within the French nation; Haitian and Antillean diasporas in France and the U.S.; cultural identities and cultural tensions; and tourism. We will study these and other themes by reading a personal memoir, a novel, historical accounts, and a series of short articles. Students will also work with a selection of films. This seminar is particularly appropriate for students with an interest in cross-cultural analysis and history.