Publication Date
3-1-2008
Abstract
The land known today as Belgium is home to many important historical and cultural icons that many associate with France. Charlemagne, Jacques Brel, René Magritte, Georges Simenon, and even the ubiquitous “French” fries, all have an intimate Belgian connection. When one thinks of Francophone cultures, however, the focus normally turns to Africa, Québec, the Caribbean, perhaps Switzerland, but almost never to Belgium. This article presents a cultural unit on French-speaking Belgium that illuminates the country’s linguistic and cultural geography, its history, politics, arts, and gastronomy. In addition to these basic culture capsules, the article offers suggestions for teaching and for pre- and post-assessment. This introduction to French-speaking Belgium is designed to encourage students to develop a broader cultural awareness of the diversity of the Francophone world and to appreciate its importance to them as world citizens. The impetus for this article comes from the author’s experience in Mons in the summer of 2007.
Recommended Citation
Signori, Lisa
(2008)
"The Belgian Connection,"
Dimensions: Vol. 43, Article 8.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.kennesaw.edu/dimensions/vol43/iss1/8