French 330 - Scientific Selves: Medicine, Technology and Identity in Early Modern France

From the 16th-18th centuries, the Scientific Revolution led to breakthroughs in biology, medicine, and technology. This course examines how such breakthroughs informed attitudes toward various aspects of human identity in the French context. How did scientific discourse depict those who did not fit into paradigms of gender, sexuality, ability, ethnicity, belief, and culture? What parallels can we identify with modern-day activism? To explore these questions, we will analyze literary texts, visual representations, medical treatises, and scientific diagrams. We will also collaborate with the Botanic Garden to study medicinal plants, interrogate modern day health concerns, and create our own wellness tea blends. Prerequisites: 2 courses above FRN 230 or equivalent.