FREN 354 - French Opera in the Time of the Sun King: The “Libretti” of Quinault and Music of Lully

Prerequisite, FREN 201 or consent of instructor. An exploration of both the literary and the musical traditions of the finest operas written in French during the reign of Louis XIV. Students will read, listen to and view libretti written in French from the classical era such as Quinault’s “Alceste” and Corneille’s “Psyché.” Students will examine the rich literary tradition of the libretti and their fascinating interplay with the music of composers such as Lully. The class will provide students with an understanding of the historical setting in which the most popular performing art emerged as a powerful instrument of royalist propaganda during the reign of the Sun King. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits