Discover the murder, intrigue, and drama of the 11th -19th centuries by exploring castles in France! Power, Politics, and Castles combines historical and political analysis with geographic context to explore castles and other architectural monuments as symbols of authority, defense, and influence in France. We will spend a week visiting famous historical castles like Versailles and the Louvre as well as other castles in Paris like the château de Vincennes and Fontainebleau. We then take the train to the Loire Valley where we will spend a week visiting elaborate Renaissance castles like Amboise, Blois and Chambord, where Leonardo da Vinci lived and worked with the kings of France. We take the train next to the Atlantic coastal city of Nantes, site of a 15th century castle, home of the Dukes of Brittany. From Nantes, we will spend the day at Puy du Fou, an elaborate theme park with medieval reenactments and spectacular shows. We then take the train back to Paris where we will visit a few more sites of historic political interest like the Invalides (Napoleon’s tomb) and the Arc de Triomphe. Our last night in Paris we will climb the stairs to the 2nd floor (177 steps, 377ft high) of the Eiffel Tower at sunset to bid farewell to the City of Light.
Prerequisites: None. An interest in history, architecture, and/or French culture is recommended.
Credits: 4
Course: IDIS 260
Basic Information
Location
France
Dates
Next offered: Summer Intensive 2026
Cost
Course Info
IDIS 260
Student Experience
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