The French capital has long been considered the birthplace of modernity. How do authors and artists construct its distinction? In what ways does their work draw on historical events and on the city’s rich culture? These questions guide our exploration of Parisian modernity through varied literary selections, films, photographs, and other documents. The city’s many facets will be presented through primary sources, which are linked thematically, and focus on topics such as the Eiffel Tower as a symbol, the boulevards and café culture, and Paris as the ideal place to realize one’s extraordinary ambitions. Prerequisite: FREN 350.