Transnational French Studies

Transnational French Studies contributors position this field within transnational frameworks, defining the core skills and methodologies for studying French culture as a transnational, transcultural, and translingual phenomenon. The book explores the transnational dimensions of being human, focusing on language, transcultural places, time, and transnational subjectivities, demonstrating that the transnational is present throughout French history and culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 472 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2023
Publisher: Liverpool University Press

Transnational French Studies is a dynamic and interdisciplinary field that explores the complex interplay between French culture and global contexts. Contributors to this discipline position it within transnational frameworks, recognizing the interconnectedness of cultures and languages across borders. The primary goal of this volume is to establish a comprehensive set of skills and methodologies for studying French culture as a transnational, transcultural, and translingual phenomenon. Written by esteemed scholars in the field, the chapters showcase the diverse range of inquiry that can be pursued to understand the multifaceted realities of French culture, both material and non-material.

The book delves into the transnational dimensions of human existence, focusing on four key practices that constitute the object of study for students of French: language and multilingualism, the construction of transcultural places and the associated sense of space, the experience of time, and transnational subjectivities. The underlying premise of the volume is that the transnational has always been present throughout the history and culture of France. The chapters address instances and phenomena associated with the transnational, spanning from prehistory to the present, expanding the geopolitical map of French studies beyond France and including sites where communities identified as French have formed.

One of the key insights of Transnational French Studies is the recognition of the fluidity and mobility of cultural elements. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of cultures, languages, and identities, highlighting how French culture has been influenced by various global forces and has, in turn, contributed to the broader cultural landscape. The volume explores the ways in which French language, literature, art, and media have traversed national boundaries, fostering cultural exchange, hybridization, and the emergence of new forms of expression.

Another important aspect of Transnational French Studies is its attention to the experiences of individuals and communities who are engaged in transnational processes. It recognizes the diverse backgrounds, identities, and perspectives of those who migrate, travel, or establish connections across borders. The book explores the challenges and opportunities that arise from these experiences, as well as the ways in which individuals and communities negotiate and adapt to different cultural contexts.

Transnational French Studies also emphasizes the importance of cultural translation and interpretation. It recognizes that cultural expressions are not fixed or universal, but rather are shaped by the specific contexts in which they are produced and consumed. The volume explores the challenges and complexities of translating and interpreting French culture across different languages and cultural contexts, as well as the ways in which these processes contribute to the preservation and dissemination of cultural heritage.

In conclusion, Transnational French Studies is a groundbreaking and essential contribution to the field of Modern Languages. It provides a comprehensive framework for studying French culture as a transnational, transcultural, and translingual phenomenon. By exploring the interconnectedness of cultures, languages, and identities, the volume offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of global culture and the role of French culture in shaping it. Through its focus on key practices, experiences, and translation, the book empowers students and scholars to engage with French culture in a more nuanced and interdisciplinary manner, fostering a deeper understanding of the world and its interconnectedness.

Weight: 722g
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789627961