FRENCH 355L: European Crime Fiction

This course examines suspects, felons, and detectives in European crime fiction between the 18th century and today (in England, France, Germany, Italy, and Russia). It introduces students to the historical development of crime literature focusing on key authors, genres and movements. Beginning with the popularization of crime narratives in the era of Enlightenment, the course examines the development of genre conventions in subsequent centuries until the post-modern disintegration of narrative patterns. Particular emphasis is placed on the construction of gender roles, social class, national and regional identity through literature as a cultural practice. Taught in English; readings in the original language are available upon request.