Brian Quinn specializes in the literature and drama of Sub-Saharan Francophone Africa, with a focus on theater and Performance Studies. His work has included extensive research on theatrical forms and performance practices in Dakar, Senegal and his current project examines the history and impact of stage performance in Francophone West Africa. He also researches contemporary performance practices in Senegal and has collaborated with forum theater companies and festivals in the Dakar region.
keywords
French and francophone studies, African studies, performance studies, literary studies, Senegalese studies, francophone Africa, literary and cultural production of the francophone world
FREN 3200 - Introduction to Literary Theory and Advanced Critical Analysis
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Fall 2019
Introduces important aspects of both classical and modern literary theory as an aid to reading and understanding literary texts. Covers theoretical works by figures ranging from Plato and Aristotle to modern French critics such as Barthes, Foucault, and Derrida in conjunction with selected literary works. Offers students more sophisticated means of understanding issues like gender, ethnicity, the roles of both author and reader in constructing meaning, the nature and functions of signs, and the relationship between literature and the larger society. Conducted in English, though French majors are required to read the texts in the original language. Required for students taking honors in French or Italian.
FREN 3800 - France and the Muslim World
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Spring 2019
Introduces students to the polemic colonial, social, and cultural interactions of France and Islam. Close attention will be paid to paradigms of identities of one of the major European nations and the Islamic world. Readings and discussion topics for this course cover the social, cultural, and literary depictions of Islamic and French interactions, negotiations, and contradictions. Taught in English. Cannot be used for French major or minor credit.
FREN 4170 - Francophone Literature
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Fall 2019
Studies the literary expression of French-speaking peoples of Africa, the Caribbean, and French Canada. Gives special attention to oral tradition, identity question, and cultural conflict.
FREN 5120 - French Special Topics
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Spring 2019
Different topics are offered and, in a number of cases, cross-listed with other departments. May be repeated up to 6 total credit hours on different topics.
