Civilisation of the English-speaking countries : cultural aspects [ LGERM1325 ]

Pre-course requirements: a good knowledge of English, both spoken and written.

The course studies the major cultural, artistic and political trends and developments in the countries that have English as a principal language (intellectual life, visual arts, music, architecture, etc.).

General survey of the cultural developments of the English-speaking countries.
By the end of the course, students are expected to have acquired an understanding of the culture of the countries where English is a major language.

Written exam based on both the lectures and required reading.

Lectures.

Study aids: PowerPoint presentations, reading list, handouts, course notes.

This course will deal with the cultural identity of English-speaking Europe. A first part, taught by Guido Latré, consists of an excursion to the "Flanders Fields" (the battlefields of World War I) and its preparation. A second part, also taught by Guido Latré, is based on artistic expressions (paintings, etchings, literature, etc.) in Great Britain from the 14^th century to the beginning of the 20^th century. The third part, taught by Ingrid Bertrand, concentrates on the 20^th century, and emphasises how English-speaking Europe progressively opens up to the voices of ethnic, racial and sexual minorities.

Compulsory one-day excursion to the Flanders Fields.