Would you like to keep up your French while enjoying the pleasure of reading a good book and discussing it with others? In this literature-themed course you’ll read ‘Qui a tué mon père’ by Édouard Louis.

In ‘Qui a tué mon père’ Édouard Louis describes key moments in his father’s life and in their relationship. Louis grew up in a small town in France, dealing with the enduring violence and homophobia of his alcoholic right-wing father. When his father becomes bed bound due to an accident in the factory where he works, Louis reflects on those who are responsible for his father’s nearing death and the destruction of his body. Amongst those he blames we find French presidents Jacques Chirac, Nicolas Sarkozy and François Hollande, as well as Emmanuel Macron. He critiques those politicians who have passed reforms that have impacted the poor. In doing so, this book discusses and critiques issues surrounding masculinity, class, homophobia, shame and social poverty.

For this course a B1+ level in French is required.