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.
Recommended Citation
Langlois, Alyssa Claire, "« Iel Dit Quoi ? » : A Study of the Origins and Evolution of Francophone Gender-Neutral Pronouns and Inclusive Language and a Discussion of French versus Canadian Acceptance" (2023). Honors Theses. 2847.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/2847
Accessibility Status
Searchable text
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Included in
French Linguistics Commons, Modern Languages Commons, Other Feminist, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Commons, Women's Studies Commons