Program Overview

Program Overview

The program "Utopies et dystopies environnementales" is a course offered by the EPFL, focusing on the analysis of utopian and dystopian literary genres through the lens of ecopoetics and environmental issues.

Course Description

This course will examine contemporary literary works of fiction that explore environmental crises and the Anthropocene era. It will delve into the concepts of utopia and dystopia, ecopoetics, and the ways in which literature can contribute to rethinking our relationship with the environment.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Interpret literary texts
• Criticize and analyze literary works
• Theorize and argue about environmental issues
• Compare and contrast different literary genres
• Structure and compose written work

Course Structure

The course will consist of introductory sessions on utopian and dystopian genres, followed by in-depth analyses of French literary works. Students will work in groups to prepare and write a report on one of the literary works, focusing on environmental issues.

Evaluation Method

The course will be evaluated through a mid-term individual test and a group report on one of the literary works.

Required Competencies

Students are expected to have a good understanding of literary analysis, ecopoetics, and environmental issues. They should be able to work in groups, communicate effectively, and demonstrate critical thinking skills.

Transversal Skills

The course aims to develop students' ability to:

• Access and evaluate relevant information
• Demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Communicate effectively in writing and orally
• Work in groups and collaborate with others
• Set goals and plan actions to achieve them

Bibliography

The course will draw on a range of literary and theoretical texts, including works by Guillaume Bridet, Simon Bréan, Jean-Paul Engélibert, Ursula K. Heise, Erin James, Irène Langlet, Yannick Rumpala, Pierre Schoentjes, and Alexa Weik von Mossner.

Course Details

• Semester: Spring
• Number of places: 50
• Exam form: During the semester (summer session)
• Course type: Obligatory for Bachelor students, optional for UNIL students
• Course schedule: 2 hours/week x 14 weeks

Related Courses

The course is part of the "Sciences humaines et sociales" program and is connected to other courses in the field of environmental humanities.