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Teaching the sound system(s): the case of mid vowels

Article Abstract:

Teaching the six mid vowels is a special problem in teaching the French sound system(s). French, like other natural languages, evolves depending on geography and social and style divisions. The mid vowels are potentially, at least, phonemic in many French dialects. Refusal to acknowledge variant forms of French so that students see them as inferior to that of Paris/northern France has some disadvantages, especially if French is to be seen as a global language. Students should learn something about variations and about stigmas that come from French political and cultural authority.

Phonetics, French language

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Fighting French censorship, 1815-1881

Article Abstract:

French censorship was the subject of an intense and extensive struggle from 1815 to 1881. Those in authority in 19th-century France put a very great amount of time and effort into suppressing dissident expressions of opinion, written, drawn and acted out, in various media, and those who wanted to express dissension put equal effort into opposing them. The authorities feared spread of such expressions could threaten their power. The dissidents used some ingenious and daring methods with considerable success.

France, History, Dissenters, 19th century AD, Censorship

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