Write a thesis, live in a box

I'm safe and sound in Paris! I'm all settled in at my host family's apartment in the 3eme arrondissement - though that settling in will last only about a week, as we're moving to the 4eme on the 15th. I'm very excited about our new location - it's about a block from the building where I'll be taking two of my classes this semester, and only a five minute walk from the beautiful Place des Vosges.

This is week one of orientation, which means super intensive information sessions, grammar and "Civilization" classes, lectures on aspects of French culture, and starting next week, the all important walking tours of Paris.

I'm in the advanced grammar class for orientation, and the last few days have been spent getting instruction in writing the French paper (when we're not conjugating the passe simple that is...apparently we're expected to know how to write it here and not just identify it...heh...). The French model is so, so different from a U.S. paper. Since elementary school, we Americans have been trained to think of a thesis and find arguments to support that thesis. You work to put down anything that disproves your point; you express an opinion.

So most of the class was having a very hard time dealing with the idea of the French paper. "Your opinion doesn't matter," our French teacher told us (in a very nice tone of voice, but still). "The French education system doesn't judge. If you really want to prove a point, then pursue un doctorat and defend your thesis in front of other experts." Our professors want to see papers that demonstrate we have a well-rounded knowledge of the entire subject. You evenly and neutrally discuss the pros and cons of a subject; if you pick just one side to defend, it's perceived as plain laziness.

It'll be hard to adjust to - after all, I've been very well-trained in the American model (thanks Weston), and thinking in thesis-format comes naturally - but I think I'm having an easier time than others. One girl in my class almost got into an argument with the professor about this format. First bit of culture shock, I guess. It says a lot about the two cultures, of course, that one is trained to pick a side and defend it to the death, while the other insists on a full knowledge of both points of view.

I'll write more soon, once orientation craziness dies down. Bonne soiree!