Introduction: As French teachers, we continuously seek engaging and educational resources to captivate our students and enrich their learning experience. One such resource is the film "Molière," a captivating drama that masterfully depicts the life and works of one of France’s most celebrated playwrights, Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, known as Molière. This film not only entertains but also provides profound lessons on the transformative power of theater and the interplay between reality and fiction. In this blog, we'll explore the film's themes, its educational value, and how you can effectively integrate it into your classroom using the FilmArobics process.
Exploring the Film: "Molière," directed by Laurent Tirard and released in 2007, offers a semi-fictional account of the young playwright’s life. The film imagines what might have happened during the months Molière disappeared from historical records in 1645. In this narrative, Molière is released from debtors' prison by a wealthy benefactor, Monsieur Jourdain, who wants him to teach him acting to win the heart of a young widow. The film’s witty script, engaging performances, and clever homage to Molière’s legacy make it an excellent tool for teaching French language and culture.
Main Themes and Educational Value: The film is rich with themes that are both universal and deeply connected to its cultural and historical context:
- Transformative Power of Theater: The film emphasizes the impact of theater on individuals and society, providing a platform for discussing the importance of performing arts.
- Interplay Between Reality and Fiction: The story’s blending of historical facts with imaginative fiction highlights the creative process and invites discussions about the nature of storytelling.
- Social Commentary in Comedy: The film’s portrayal of Molière’s works underscores the role of comedy in critiquing societal norms and behaviors.
Using the FilmArobics Process: The FilmArobics process offers a structured approach to integrating films into language lessons. Here’s how you can use it effectively with "Molière":
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Pre-Viewing Activities:
- Vocabulary Building: Introduce key vocabulary from the film to ensure students can follow the story.
- Context Setting: Provide background information about Molière’s life, the historical context of 17th-century France, and the significance of his literary works.
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Viewing Activities:
- Comprehension Checks: Pause the film at intervals to ask comprehension questions and ensure students are following the plot.
- Discussion Prompts: Encourage students to discuss the characters' motivations, the setting, and the themes as they watch.
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Post-Viewing Activities:
- Cultural Notes: Explore the cultural and historical elements depicted in the film, such as the role of theater in 17th-century France and Molière’s influence on literature.
- Communicative Tasks: Engage students in role-plays or debates based on scenarios from the film to practice their speaking skills.
- Writing Exercises: Assign essays or creative writing tasks that allow students to express their reflections on the film's themes.
Key Dates for Classroom Integration: To enrich your lessons further, consider aligning your activities with significant dates related to the film:
- January 15: Molière’s Birthday - Celebrate the playwright’s contributions to literature.
- June 1: Release Anniversary - Reflect on the film's impact and legacy.
- March 27: World Theatre Day - Discuss the significance of theater and Molière’s influence.
- April 23: World Book Day - Explore Molière’s literary works and their cultural impact.
Conclusion: Incorporating "Molière" into your French language curriculum offers a unique opportunity to engage students with authentic cultural content. This film not only enhances language skills but also fosters a deeper appreciation for themes of comedy, drama, and the transformative power of theater. By utilizing the lesson plan crafted by FilmArobics, you can provide a comprehensive and immersive learning experience. Encourage your students to explore the rich tapestry of French literature, theater, and the creative genius of Molière. Purchase "Molière" today and enrich your classroom with this captivating and educational film.
