Marcel Aymé's Wartime Journalism
Department
Chemistry
Major
Chemistry
Research Advisor
Merfeld-Langston, Audra L.
Advisor's Department
Arts, Languages, and Philosophy
Abstract
During World War II, the Germans occupied approximately half of France. This meant many new rules for French citizens, including the rationing of food and censorship of the media. Marcel Aymé was a writer before and during the Occupation of France. His decision to continue writing under German censors caused some people at the time to label him as a collaborator, but after reading Aymé's original newspaper articles published from 1939-1944, it is clear he was in no way pro-German. His articles contain many harsh truths about France's downfall, along with a defense of freedom of speech for writers. After the war, many people condemned Aymé's defense of collaborators' rights to free expression. On the surface, Aymé's works are very critical of the French government and its citizens, but he did this because he wanted to spark discussion and better his country.
Biography
Emily Weigel is a fifth year Chemistry student also studying for her minor in French. She has been an active member of the campus radio station KMNR since her third semester, holding executive board and appointed positions in addition to her regular radio show. When not studying or doing homework, she enjoys reading science fiction and fantasy novels.
Research Category
Arts and Humanities
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Document Type
Presentation
Award
Arts and humanities oral presentation, Second place
Location
Meramec Room
Presentation Date
15 Apr 2015, 10:00 am - 10:30 am
Marcel Aymé's Wartime Journalism
Meramec Room
During World War II, the Germans occupied approximately half of France. This meant many new rules for French citizens, including the rationing of food and censorship of the media. Marcel Aymé was a writer before and during the Occupation of France. His decision to continue writing under German censors caused some people at the time to label him as a collaborator, but after reading Aymé's original newspaper articles published from 1939-1944, it is clear he was in no way pro-German. His articles contain many harsh truths about France's downfall, along with a defense of freedom of speech for writers. After the war, many people condemned Aymé's defense of collaborators' rights to free expression. On the surface, Aymé's works are very critical of the French government and its citizens, but he did this because he wanted to spark discussion and better his country.
