1st Edition

Aspects of Contemporary France

By Sheila Perry Copyright 1997
    280 Pages
    by Routledge

    280 Pages
    by Routledge

    France is defined by claims of uniqueness made by or about the French. Aspects of Contemporary France illuminates the contemporary economic, cultural, political and social climate of France. Using a multidisciplinary approach, this book explains the historical background to controversial issues. It also traces France's road to nationhood through religion, language and territory.
    Each chapter is by a specialist in the field and is based on the most up to date information and research. Beginning with the present day, the book traces the historical background to events and provides a context for evaluation. The wide-ranging and varied themes covered include:
    * political parties
    * regions in the market place
    * television and film
    * women
    * secularism and Islam
    * linguistic policies
    * French consumers
    The book also offers a helpful chronology at the end of each chapter, a detailed bibliography and a recommended reading list.
    Aspects of Contemporary France presents an analytical as well as informative appraoch to French Studies. It provides a readily accessible but in-depth understanding for students of France or French civilization at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

    Introduction: France in the Making W.B.Smith Part I: French Structures and Institutions 1. The Presidency R. Turner 2. The Changing Face if Party Politics Maire F. Cross 3. Defence and Foreign Policy Rodney Balcomb 4. The Regions in the Market Place Richard J. Lund 5. The Higher Education System R. Turner 6. The Church W.B.Smith Part II: Defining a French Identity 1. Islam and Laicite Ines Bruland 2. The Condition of Women in France Alison Holland 3. 58 Million Consumers Eve Gillard-Russell 4. Linguistic Policies Ines Bruland 5. Post-War French Cinema Marcel Landric and Ann Marie Condron 6. Issues Behind the Small Screen Sheila Perry

    Biography

    Sheila Perry

    'This book fills a significant gap in the literature in English on contemporary France.' - Dr Tony Chafer, University of Portsmouth