Honors Theses

Date of Award

Spring 5-13-2023

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Department

Croft Institute for International Studies

First Advisor

Daniel E. O'Sullivan

Second Advisor

Alexandre X. DuBois

Third Advisor

Patrick Lewis

Relational Format

Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract

Our interpretation of human gender identity has never been constant. And with it, language has always shifted in order to best represent the many different gender identities and expressions that people associate with themselves. This research examines the current gender-inclusive and gender-neutral French language that exists in both France and Canada. I use three factors: occupational nouns, l’écriture inclusive, and neopronouns, especially iel, the most common. In this thesis, I evaluate what exists, what has yet to be accepted, and the many different public reactions. I analyzed statements from official language offices, current event articles, and opinions pieces, as well as primary sources and academic journal articles. I also conducted interviews with gender non-conforming Francophone individuals, in order to fill in any gaps in the currently available literature. I chose to study France and Canada, due to their similarities and presence of official language offices. This brief overview is a succinct look into a developing topic, and I hope to continue to research it as development continues.

Accessibility Status

Searchable text

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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