TITLE: AFRICA: Portrayal or betrayal?
Course Coordinator: Laura LANGLOIS
Presentation: Many films have been made about Africa, but how objective and realistic are they? Have
they contributed to boosting a positive image of the dynamic African continent and its people, or have
they limited themselves to depicting negative aspects, such as poverty, crime and conflict?
By analyzing and discussing attitudes conveyed in films and in the media, we will explore the theme of
Africa and its many facets.
Teaching Objectives:
Linguistic objectives: to use and develop English language skills through discussion, oral presentation,
listening and reading. Acquisition of vocabulary.
Cultural objectives: to look at how Africa and the Africans are portrayed in the media and in films.
Format:
One weekly class of 2 hours (P3 Fridays 8-10a.m.: 8 dates: 27/01, 03/02, 10/02, 24/02, 10/03, 17/03,
24/03, 31/03).
Course Content:
Africa – historical, political, economic and social contexts
Attitudes towards Africa and how they have changed
Cinema portrayal of Africa in films such as Out of Africa, Blood Diamond, The Last King of Scotland,
Tsotsi, Hotel Rwanda, Goodbye Bafana, Invictus, Darwin’s Nightmare, The Interpreter, The
Constant Gardener or …open to suggestions!
Africa’s portrayal in the media and in literature
Teaching Methods:
Viewing of fictional and documentary film extracts, followed (or preceded) by subject exploration,
analysis and discussion of opinions. Reading and analysis of press articles and literary extracts. Individual
or group research into historical, political, economic and social backgrounds and contexts. Individual and
group oral presentations by students, accompanied by slides and references.
Individual Work:
Students will be expected to watch/read and reflect on video extracts and texts outside the class as well as
in class, in order to participate actively in discussions. They will also prepare oral presentations in groups
on a chosen aspect of the portrayal of Africa – a specific film, a particular country or a theme, such as
African entrepreneurship, raw materials, conflict or humanitarian work. A written assignment will also be
given.
Evaluation:
Continual assessment of participation and use of the English language.
Evaluation of an oral presentation given by the student in a group.
Graded written assignment (opinion essay)
This course is designed for students who have a particular interest in or desire to learn more about
Africa. Oral participation is particularly important.