In the middle ages, France was a grouping of independent provinces ruled over by a collection of dukes, princes, counts and the odd duchess. Outside of Paris, the central power of the king had little authority. While various heads of state aimed to centralize the government in Paris, the regions of France always kept their individuality and preserved the charm of their ever-changing landscapes from the shores of Normandy to the towering Alps and the gentle valleys of Alsace to the volcanoes of Auvergne. This class presents a series of contemporary films, which will take you on an exploration into the heart and essence of France and her regions. Through discussion and group investigation, this course and films will offer a variety of honest portraits featuring significant aspects of life in modern-day France.
Note: Films will be shown with English subtitles.