Aims

The course uses the concepts and methods of narratology to analyse mass media productions based on fiction, and not information or journalism. It will therefore focus on questions of writing for the
media, and in how it is produced and received. The course also takes a critical look at general theories of theories of narration and communication.

Content and teaching methods

Content
The course will first look at the conditions in which mass media narratives are produced and inserted in the field of contemporary culture. It will take its inspiration from the main theories of the sociology of cultural fields (e.g. Bourdieu, Dubois and Lafarge) and from work on para literatures. It will then review the places where mass media fictions are to be found (popular literature, para 1iterary genres, the sensational press, and television series and soaps), with particular attention being drawn to audio-visua1 productions. A special section will be studied closely each year from a thematic (e.g. crime fiction) or media (e.g. televised series) angle.
Methodology
The course includes a section on theoretical expositions and of very precise case studies.
Particular emphasis will be placed on group work.

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

Assessment will concentrate both on a command of the theoretical elements taught, and on the analyses carried out by each group. Normal work will be mandatory throughout the semester and for the final assessment.
The course includes 15 hours of lectures and 15 hours of seminars led by Assistants.

Programmes in which this activity is taught

Other credits in programs