The study of French at Salem explores all aspects of the culture, such as language, art, literature, history, film, and autobiography.
French is one of four languages offered by the Modern Languages Department. Foreign study forms a valuable part of education, and the department strongly encourages students to spend their junior year abroad. The department maintains a file of the many summer, semester, and year-long programs abroad in which our students can participate so that each one can choose the type of program and location which best suits her interests.
Program Faculty
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Overview
Your Program
The study of French at Salem explores all aspects of the culture, such as language, art, literature, history, film, and autobiography.
Your Experience
Because of this broad-based knowledge, you will gain a well-rounded, inclusive education that allows you to apply your knowledge to future academic or professional careers.
Your Faculty
In your French classes at Salem, you’ll enjoy a great faculty/student ratio of 1:11, personalized instruction, and the opportunity to broaden your knowledge of French through internships and assistance pursuing study abroad.
Your Experience
With a degree in French, you will gain a broad understanding of the scope of the French language, as well as become proficient in French. As a graduate, you can:
- Work as a translator;
- Work as a high school French teacher;
- Volunteer with the Peace Corps;
- Continue your education in graduate or law school;
- Pursue an international business career.
Major/Minor
A goal of any person seeking a liberal education is an understanding of the workings – phonemic, semantic, syntactic, stylistic – of language. Study of a modern language, for the sake of contrast and comparison with one’s mother tongue, is highly desirable in producing such an understanding. In addition, study of a modern language is needed more than ever today for transcending cultural barriers. Study of modern languages and cultures promotes rapprochement among nations and peoples.
French Major (BA)
All French courses offered above the 030 level may count toward the major and, unless otherwise indicated, are conducted primarily in French. A minimum of twenty-seven semester hours are required for the major. All majors will be expected to demonstrate an appropriate level of oral and written proficiency in French. During the senior year, each student majoring in French will consult with her advisor and designate a specific course for senior assessment. As part of this course, each student will complete required components of the senior assessment of learning outcomes.
Required courses:
- FREN 105. Intermediate French II (4 hrs)
- FREN 206. Advanced French Composition and Conversation (3 hrs)
Additional FREN elective courses above FREN 030 to reach a minimum of 27 semester hours (No more than six semester hours total of Independent Study may be use toward the major or minor .
At least three of the required French courses, including at least one 200- or 300-level course, must be completed at Salem.
French Minor
The minor in French requires a minimum of fifteen semester hours above the 030 level and must include FREN 105. In addition, one civilization course and one literature course in French are required. At least three of the five courses must be taken at Salem.
Required course:
FREN 105. Intermediate French II (4 hrs)
Select one of the following civilization courses:
- FREN 220. Contemporary French Culture (3 hrs)
- FREN 313. French Cinema and Culture (3 hrs)
- FREN 250. Special Topics in French (when topic is approved) (3-4 hrs min.)
Select one of the following literature courses:
- FREN 100. Introduction to Literature (3 hrs)
- FREN 130. French Drama Workshop (3 hrs)
- FREN 216. Francophone Literature (3 hrs)
- FREN 231. French Poetry (3 hrs)
- FREN 232. French Novel (3 hrs)
- FREN 311. Literature and Culture in the Age of Louis XIV (3 hrs)
- FREN 312. The Eve of Revolution (3 hrs)
- FREN 250. Special Topics in French (when topic is approved) (3-4 hrs)
Additional FREN elective courses above FREN 030 to reach a minimum of fifteen semester hours (No more than six semester hours total of Independent Study may be use toward the major or minor.
Courses
FREN 010. Elementary French I (4 hrs)
Basic spoken and written French within the limits of a few simple situations. Elements of pronunciation and basic grammar, with progressive emphasis on reading. Three meetings per week plus two weekly one-hour laboratories.
FREN 020. Elementary French II (4 hrs)
Continuation of FREN 010 at a more advanced level. Three meetings, two one-hour laboratories. Prerequisite: FREN 010 or proficiency equivalent.
FREN 025. Intensive Elementary French (4 hrs)
A comprehensive and intensive study of the basics of French pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, and structure. Practice in speaking, understanding, writing, and reading French of increasing difficulty. This class covers the same material as FREN 010 and 020 combined. Designed for entering students with two or more years of French who do not meet the proficiency requirement to enter FREN 030.
FREN 030. Intermediate French I (4 hrs)
Speaking, understanding, reading, writing French. Review of basic elements of French grammar. Three meetings, two one-hour laboratories. Prerequisite: FREN 020 or proficiency equivalent.
FREN 100. Introduction to Literature (4 hrs)
Introduction to literature through the study of poetry, film, theatre, and short story. Class emphasizes close textual readings, discussion, critical writing, and analytical skills. Prerequisite: FREN 030, placement or permission of instructor.
FREN 101. Conversational Practice in French (4 hrs)
An opportunity for students to speak French in an informal setting. Topics might include current events, work, cultural issues, and one’s personal life. Emphasis on improving one’s speaking and listening skills. May be repeated once, for a total of one course credit toward the major or minor. Prerequisite: FREN 030 or equivalent. Offered as needed.
FREN 105. Intermediate French II (4 hrs)
A course to develop fluency and accuracy in the use of spoken and written French. Includes a review of the principles of French syntax, grammar, and phonology. Prerequisite: FREN 030, placement or permission of instructor.
FREN 130. French Drama Workshop (3 hrs)
Reading, analysis, and presentation of plays from the Middle Ages to the modern period. Emphasis on improved oral proficiency, development of theatrical skills, and creative approaches to drama. Prerequisites: FREN 030 or permission of instructor.
FREN 200. Independent Study in French (1-4 hrs)
Independent study under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Open to students with a 2.0 cumulative average, permission of the chair of the department. Independent study may take the form of readings, research, conference, projects, and/or field experience. Independent study may be taken for a total of four courses, no more than two in any term. Prerequisite: previous study in French or permission of instructor.
FREN 206. Advanced French Composition and Conversation (3 hrs)
Advanced study and practice of some of the finer points of grammar, stylistics, idiomatic expression, and pronunciation. Limited to fifteen students. Four meetings per week. Prerequisite: FREN 105 or permission of instructor. Offered as needed.
FREN 210. Business French (3 hrs)
Practice in both oral and written forms of communication, with emphasis on their application to practical problems encountered in social or business situations. Attention to social and economic practices which differ from those of the US. Two meetings per week. Prerequisites: FREN 105 or permission of instructor. Offered as needed.
FREN 216. Francophone Literature (3 hrs)
An introduction to literature produced in French-speaking countries around the globe. Although the regions and topics studied may vary, the course will place special emphasis on texts produced in Africa and the Antilles. Students will address the cultural and historical realities surrounding the text with particular attention to the representation of women. Prerequisite: FREN 100-level course or permission of instructor.
FREN 220. Contemporary French Culture (3 hrs)
Political, social, economic, and cultural developments in contemporary France. Prerequisite: two 100-level FREN courses or permission of the chair of the department. (GA)
FREN 231. French Poetry (3 hrs)
Analysis, interpretation, translation, and writing of French poetry. Emphasis on developing language skills and creativity. Prerequisite: FREN 100-level course or permission of instructor. (GA)
FREN 232. French Novel (3 hrs)
Reading and analysis of significant French novels of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries with special emphasis on novels by women. Prerequisite: FREN 100-level course or permission of instructor.
FREN 250. Special Topics in French (1-4 hs)
A special period, issue, or theme in French literature or culture is to be studied in depth. Topic and course content will be announced prior to registration. Course may be taught in English or French. French majors will be required to do their reading and writing in French whenever possible. Prerequisite for French majors: FREN 105. No prerequisites for others. Offered as needed.
FREN 270. Internship in French (1-4 hrs)
An opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills the student has learned in courses to real work settings. The apprenticeship aspect of the internship implies that the student has some base of knowledge and will increase her knowledge and skills by direct contact with an experienced, knowledgeable mentor. Open to juniors and seniors with a 2.0 cumulative average; may be taken only once for credit toward the major or minor; admission by application only.
FREN 290. Honors Independent Study in French (3-4 hrs)
Independent study under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Normally open to juniors and seniors with a 3.5 major average in French. Subject to the approval of the chair of the department. Honors work may be taken a maximum of twice and may not be taken concurrently.
FREN 311. Literature and Culture in the Age of Louis XIV (3 hrs)
An intensive study of France from 1643 to 1715. Emphasis on the development of comedy and tragedy, trends in poetry, women’s writing, painting, the beginnings of French opera, and the role of Versailles as a hub of cultural production. Prerequisite: FREN 105 and a literature class or permission of instructor.
FREN 312. The Eve of the Revolution (3 hrs)
Introduction to the thought and literature of eighteenth-century France. Students will examine social and political criticism at the eve of the Revolution through the study of diverse literary texts. Prerequisite: FREN 105 and a literature class.
FREN 313. French Cinema and Culture (3 hrs)
A study of French culture as represented in and created by film. Study of classic films, the new wave, heritage films, and feminist film. Open to non-French speakers. Prerequisite for French majors or minors: FREN 100-level course. French majors and minors will have a separate class meeting in French. (GA)
Internships
Resources
FAQs
Even though Salem is a small college, it challenges you to be a part of something big. In the classroom, in student organizations, in your dorm—you are empowered with the opportunity to decide what you think and what you have to offer. But more than this, Salem challenges young women to define how we can contribute to our community and to our world.
When I first started my graduate studies, it was a little intimidating to know most of my classmates did their undergraduate work at some of the most prestigious universities in the world. I soon realized that due to the small class size at Salem and the one-on-one interactions I had had with my professors, I was able to tackle even the most challenging courses with confidence. And I also naturally approached the knowledge I was gaining with a question in my mind of how I could translate it to my career in the future.
Katherine Holland Ortiz
Class Year: 2000
Majors: Economics and French; minor in creative writing
Graduate Studies: Master of public administration/international development, Harvard University
Career: Chief operating officer of Women Deliver, a leading global advocate for girls’ and women’s health, rights, and wellbeing, New York City. Previous: Partnership specialist, UNICEF, United Nations Headquarters, New York City
Your Program
The study of French at Salem explores all aspects of the culture, such as language, art, literature, history, film, and autobiography.
Your Experience
Because of this broad-based knowledge, you will gain a well-rounded, inclusive education that allows you to apply your knowledge to future academic or professional careers.
Your Faculty
In your French classes at Salem, you’ll enjoy a great faculty/student ratio of 1:11, personalized instruction, and the opportunity to broaden your knowledge of French through internships and assistance pursuing study abroad.
Your Experience
With a degree in French, you will gain a broad understanding of the scope of the French language, as well as become proficient in French. As a graduate, you can:
- Work as a translator;
- Work as a high school French teacher;
- Volunteer with the Peace Corps;
- Continue your education in graduate or law school;
- Pursue an international business career.
A goal of any person seeking a liberal education is an understanding of the workings – phonemic, semantic, syntactic, stylistic – of language. Study of a modern language, for the sake of contrast and comparison with one’s mother tongue, is highly desirable in producing such an understanding. In addition, study of a modern language is needed more than ever today for transcending cultural barriers. Study of modern languages and cultures promotes rapprochement among nations and peoples.
French Major (BA)
All French courses offered above the 030 level may count toward the major and, unless otherwise indicated, are conducted primarily in French. A minimum of twenty-seven semester hours are required for the major. All majors will be expected to demonstrate an appropriate level of oral and written proficiency in French. During the senior year, each student majoring in French will consult with her advisor and designate a specific course for senior assessment. As part of this course, each student will complete required components of the senior assessment of learning outcomes.
Required courses:
- FREN 105. Intermediate French II (4 hrs)
- FREN 206. Advanced French Composition and Conversation (3 hrs)
Additional FREN elective courses above FREN 030 to reach a minimum of 27 semester hours (No more than six semester hours total of Independent Study may be use toward the major or minor .
At least three of the required French courses, including at least one 200- or 300-level course, must be completed at Salem.
French Minor
The minor in French requires a minimum of fifteen semester hours above the 030 level and must include FREN 105. In addition, one civilization course and one literature course in French are required. At least three of the five courses must be taken at Salem.
Required course:
FREN 105. Intermediate French II (4 hrs)
Select one of the following civilization courses:
- FREN 220. Contemporary French Culture (3 hrs)
- FREN 313. French Cinema and Culture (3 hrs)
- FREN 250. Special Topics in French (when topic is approved) (3-4 hrs min.)
Select one of the following literature courses:
- FREN 100. Introduction to Literature (3 hrs)
- FREN 130. French Drama Workshop (3 hrs)
- FREN 216. Francophone Literature (3 hrs)
- FREN 231. French Poetry (3 hrs)
- FREN 232. French Novel (3 hrs)
- FREN 311. Literature and Culture in the Age of Louis XIV (3 hrs)
- FREN 312. The Eve of Revolution (3 hrs)
- FREN 250. Special Topics in French (when topic is approved) (3-4 hrs)
Additional FREN elective courses above FREN 030 to reach a minimum of fifteen semester hours (No more than six semester hours total of Independent Study may be use toward the major or minor.
FREN 010. Elementary French I (4 hrs)
Basic spoken and written French within the limits of a few simple situations. Elements of pronunciation and basic grammar, with progressive emphasis on reading. Three meetings per week plus two weekly one-hour laboratories.
FREN 020. Elementary French II (4 hrs)
Continuation of FREN 010 at a more advanced level. Three meetings, two one-hour laboratories. Prerequisite: FREN 010 or proficiency equivalent.
FREN 025. Intensive Elementary French (4 hrs)
A comprehensive and intensive study of the basics of French pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, and structure. Practice in speaking, understanding, writing, and reading French of increasing difficulty. This class covers the same material as FREN 010 and 020 combined. Designed for entering students with two or more years of French who do not meet the proficiency requirement to enter FREN 030.
FREN 030. Intermediate French I (4 hrs)
Speaking, understanding, reading, writing French. Review of basic elements of French grammar. Three meetings, two one-hour laboratories. Prerequisite: FREN 020 or proficiency equivalent.
FREN 100. Introduction to Literature (4 hrs)
Introduction to literature through the study of poetry, film, theatre, and short story. Class emphasizes close textual readings, discussion, critical writing, and analytical skills. Prerequisite: FREN 030, placement or permission of instructor.
FREN 101. Conversational Practice in French (4 hrs)
An opportunity for students to speak French in an informal setting. Topics might include current events, work, cultural issues, and one’s personal life. Emphasis on improving one’s speaking and listening skills. May be repeated once, for a total of one course credit toward the major or minor. Prerequisite: FREN 030 or equivalent. Offered as needed.
FREN 105. Intermediate French II (4 hrs)
A course to develop fluency and accuracy in the use of spoken and written French. Includes a review of the principles of French syntax, grammar, and phonology. Prerequisite: FREN 030, placement or permission of instructor.
FREN 130. French Drama Workshop (3 hrs)
Reading, analysis, and presentation of plays from the Middle Ages to the modern period. Emphasis on improved oral proficiency, development of theatrical skills, and creative approaches to drama. Prerequisites: FREN 030 or permission of instructor.
FREN 200. Independent Study in French (1-4 hrs)
Independent study under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Open to students with a 2.0 cumulative average, permission of the chair of the department. Independent study may take the form of readings, research, conference, projects, and/or field experience. Independent study may be taken for a total of four courses, no more than two in any term. Prerequisite: previous study in French or permission of instructor.
FREN 206. Advanced French Composition and Conversation (3 hrs)
Advanced study and practice of some of the finer points of grammar, stylistics, idiomatic expression, and pronunciation. Limited to fifteen students. Four meetings per week. Prerequisite: FREN 105 or permission of instructor. Offered as needed.
FREN 210. Business French (3 hrs)
Practice in both oral and written forms of communication, with emphasis on their application to practical problems encountered in social or business situations. Attention to social and economic practices which differ from those of the US. Two meetings per week. Prerequisites: FREN 105 or permission of instructor. Offered as needed.
FREN 216. Francophone Literature (3 hrs)
An introduction to literature produced in French-speaking countries around the globe. Although the regions and topics studied may vary, the course will place special emphasis on texts produced in Africa and the Antilles. Students will address the cultural and historical realities surrounding the text with particular attention to the representation of women. Prerequisite: FREN 100-level course or permission of instructor.
FREN 220. Contemporary French Culture (3 hrs)
Political, social, economic, and cultural developments in contemporary France. Prerequisite: two 100-level FREN courses or permission of the chair of the department. (GA)
FREN 231. French Poetry (3 hrs)
Analysis, interpretation, translation, and writing of French poetry. Emphasis on developing language skills and creativity. Prerequisite: FREN 100-level course or permission of instructor. (GA)
FREN 232. French Novel (3 hrs)
Reading and analysis of significant French novels of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries with special emphasis on novels by women. Prerequisite: FREN 100-level course or permission of instructor.
FREN 250. Special Topics in French (1-4 hs)
A special period, issue, or theme in French literature or culture is to be studied in depth. Topic and course content will be announced prior to registration. Course may be taught in English or French. French majors will be required to do their reading and writing in French whenever possible. Prerequisite for French majors: FREN 105. No prerequisites for others. Offered as needed.
FREN 270. Internship in French (1-4 hrs)
An opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills the student has learned in courses to real work settings. The apprenticeship aspect of the internship implies that the student has some base of knowledge and will increase her knowledge and skills by direct contact with an experienced, knowledgeable mentor. Open to juniors and seniors with a 2.0 cumulative average; may be taken only once for credit toward the major or minor; admission by application only.
FREN 290. Honors Independent Study in French (3-4 hrs)
Independent study under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Normally open to juniors and seniors with a 3.5 major average in French. Subject to the approval of the chair of the department. Honors work may be taken a maximum of twice and may not be taken concurrently.
FREN 311. Literature and Culture in the Age of Louis XIV (3 hrs)
An intensive study of France from 1643 to 1715. Emphasis on the development of comedy and tragedy, trends in poetry, women’s writing, painting, the beginnings of French opera, and the role of Versailles as a hub of cultural production. Prerequisite: FREN 105 and a literature class or permission of instructor.
FREN 312. The Eve of the Revolution (3 hrs)
Introduction to the thought and literature of eighteenth-century France. Students will examine social and political criticism at the eve of the Revolution through the study of diverse literary texts. Prerequisite: FREN 105 and a literature class.
FREN 313. French Cinema and Culture (3 hrs)
A study of French culture as represented in and created by film. Study of classic films, the new wave, heritage films, and feminist film. Open to non-French speakers. Prerequisite for French majors or minors: FREN 100-level course. French majors and minors will have a separate class meeting in French. (GA)
Even though Salem is a small college, it challenges you to be a part of something big. In the classroom, in student organizations, in your dorm—you are empowered with the opportunity to decide what you think and what you have to offer. But more than this, Salem challenges young women to define how we can contribute to our community and to our world.
When I first started my graduate studies, it was a little intimidating to know most of my classmates did their undergraduate work at some of the most prestigious universities in the world. I soon realized that due to the small class size at Salem and the one-on-one interactions I had had with my professors, I was able to tackle even the most challenging courses with confidence. And I also naturally approached the knowledge I was gaining with a question in my mind of how I could translate it to my career in the future.
Katherine Holland Ortiz
Class Year: 2000
Majors: Economics and French; minor in creative writing
Graduate Studies: Master of public administration/international development, Harvard University
Career: Chief operating officer of Women Deliver, a leading global advocate for girls’ and women’s health, rights, and wellbeing, New York City. Previous: Partnership specialist, UNICEF, United Nations Headquarters, New York City