This course is an introduction to some key works by major French philosophers and literary critics. We will be covering selected works by Blanchot, Bataille, Lévinas, Derrida, Lyotard, Lacoue-Labarthe and Nancy, looking at the way these authors conceive of community, writing, death, the literary and its relation to philosophy, the question of style, sexual difference, and subjectivity. This course is open to those who do not read French (and therefore need to read works in translation) as well as those who are able to read in the original language. While this is a lecture course, students will be expected to participate actively in class discussion. No background required, although an appetite for dense theoretical works is essential. Requirements: Two papers, one presentation, and weekly responses.
Same as ENGL W3991
