French Language & Literature

In English, the Reference Grammar offers an impressively detailed analysis of French grammatical structure, including the distinctions between textual organization in written and spoken French.

The first volume of the Bescherelle series, this is perhaps the most useful tool (other than a dictionary) for writing in French. It lists all French verbs and provides references to tables of conjugations in all tenses.

The intent of this book is to provide support for people who already have a basic knowledge of French pronunciation, so that they can “listen in an informed way” to spoken French — which is the best means of learning pronunciation.

Molinie approaches stylistics from a linguistical background, distinguishing between “style” and “stylistique.” However he intends the book to be used to define and facilitate the use and analysis of a “maniere litteraire.”

This workbook combines methodology and practice for beginning translators with a solid proficiency in French. It assumes a linguistic approach to the problems of translation and addresses common pitfalls, including the delineation of translation units, word polysemy, false cognates, and structural and cultural obstacles to literal translation.