LEAD 212 Sister Revolutions in France and America (Same as French 212 and History 393) (Not offered 2006-2007; to be offered 2007-2008)
In the late-eighteenth century, two revolutions burst forth-they were the most
striking and consequential events in modern history, decisive turning-points that
transformed society and politics. This course takes an interdisciplinary approach
to the study of the overarching ideas and visions of the sister revolutions.
Through works of literature, correspondence, political essays and speeches, we
will seek to understand the fundamental goals and accomplishments of both
revolutions. Who were their leaders and according to what principles did they
govern? Did revolutionaries in France find a model in America for their
Revolution? What is the meaning of the "Terror" in France and what light does it
shed on modern revolutionary movements? Why was the American Revolution
followed by decades of stability while the French Revolution bequeathed a
turbulent succession of failed governments? Have America and France
continued to conceive of themselves as revolutionary nations? We will read
works by the following historians, novelists, and politicians: Rousseau,
Robespierre, Saint-Just, Michelet,Tocqueville, Victor Hugo, Edmund Burke,
Thomas Paine, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, John Adams, Thomas
Jefferson, David B. Davis, and Hannah Arendt. Films on revolution by Renoir,
Wajda, Gance and others will be viewed. Students with a reading knowledge of
French are encouraged to read French texts in the original.
Format: seminar. Requirements: several papers and active participation in all
class discussions.
No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 15 (expected: 15). Preference given to
students with backgrounds in American history, French history or Political
Science.
Satisfies one semester of the Division II requirement.