French and Spanish Personal Statement 4
I find French and Spanish fascinating as they combine disciplines from geography and history to politics and literature, while the logical challenges presented by grammatical aspects contrast with the more creative literary or historical elements. Although the languages share Latin roots, the way that cultural expression is explored in these societies is very different. I found that early twentieth-century Spanish literature is influenced by the 'Generation of '27, who combined modernity with folklore to understand contemporary politics, while its French counterpart engaged readers through philosophical themes such as existentialism to understand the human condition. The Spanish art developed by Gaudi celebrates the diversity of national culture, while highlighting social changes in Spain. While on a Spanish exchange, I visited the Parc Güell which showcases Gaudi's art. I was interested in the variety of the art displayed, as Gaudi successfully merges new ideas with established techniques, showing perhaps how the old and new Spain can coexist. I learned subsequently how culture can be used to combat turmoil, and how it impels society to fight injustice.
In "La Casa de Bernarda Alba", Alba's authority arguably foreshadows the tyranny of Franco's regime, presumably reflecting Lorca's opinion of Spanish politics. It seems to me that "Bodas de Sangre" conveys Lorca's bravery in his sympathy for people disobeying public conventions, as he condemned Franco's beliefs. Leonardo and the Bride's escape from the wedding party represents defiance of social conventions, as the Bride flees with the man she loves rather than caring for her family. "Yerma" also addresses the role of women, as the title character’s infertility defies social expectations. I find it interesting that Yerma translates as ‘barren’, suggesting that infertility renders her life meaningless. Her frustration reveals her wish for social progress, suggesting that innovative literature will advance society, as Lorca's plays reflect Spain's determination to restore political stability.
My knowledge of Francophone culture has developed by reading novels such as "Thérèse Raquin". Thérèse's repressive home life is reflected by Zola's description of the suffocating temperatures at which her house is kept to protect her sickly cousin. Zola suggests that the human condition is such that people cannot be restricted, as we naturally desire freedom. The novel reads like a scientific investigation, typical of Naturalism. My enjoyment of the novel inspired me to research this movement, which explains how social conditions determine one's character. The focus on emotions in "Phèdre" also interests me, as Phèdre's illicit love for Hippolyte culminates in her suicide, insinuating that passion is her fatal flaw. Racine's fidelity to tragic conventions motivated me to research his development of Greek tragedy, as Phèdre's wealth and high status emphasise her descent into ruin.
My commitment to languages is shown in my work as an English assistant in a French school in my gap year. This will involve my immersion in the French lifestyle and language while sharing aspects of English culture with the school's pupils. My work experience in a French hotel last summer improved my command of French as well as my adaptability skills, as my duties varied from liaising with guests to tidying rooms. Outside of school, my membership of Gloucestershire Youth Jazz Orchestra demonstrates my enjoyment for all types of music, while achieving the Gold Duke of Edinburgh's award has improved my teamwork skills. I also help children with their reading at a local school and volunteer at a community centre, which resulted in my election into the school Community Group. These activities have improved my organisational skills, which will benefit my university studies as I will aim to complete any task to the best of my ability.
