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In independent research, Kate Ellis ’08 (Katonah, N.Y.) recently studied French feminist writer Sidonie Gabrielle Colette, known as Colette, and two of her major literary works – Gigi and Le Pur et L’Impur. She also explored Colette’s life and the history of the French feminist movement.
According to Ellis, a double major in psychology and French, Collette’s works were innovative in that they combined autobiography and fiction. Collette used fictional characters and events in her novels to express realities from her own life. Ellis also delved into Collette’s recurring subjects.
“My project examined many themes that are similar in a lot of her literary works,” explains Ellis. “These themes include homosexuality, female sexuality, the role of women in relationships, and the rejection of women by society. I specifically chose these themes as they were considered extremely controversial at the time of publication and are what made Colette extremely influential in the movement of French feminism.”
Olga Anna Duhl, associate professor of foreign languages and literatures, served as Ellis’ mentor and was impressed with the caliber of work she produced.
“She used an approach that is relatively new and applied it to texts by women writers,” says Duhl. “It is also important to note that in addition to learning about feminism, she also learned about the biography and historical context of the writer.”
Ellis first became interested in Colette after taking an advanced seminar on French feminist writing taught by Duhl during her sophomore year.
“I have taken many French classes with Professor Duhl and felt comfortable meeting with her and knew what she would expect of my writing,” Ellis says. “Her enthusiasm and interest for my project made me confident in the material and highly motivated to gain a greater appreciation and understanding of French feminist writers, such as Colette.”
Duhl believes Lafayette is a great place for students to pursue their passions.
“Our small class size ensures students get personal attention in the classroom, on top of the interdisciplinary focus of faculty members and the College in general,” says Duhl. “In [Ellis’] case she is using feminism as a critical approach to literature; she brings together subjects that do not usually belong together. This gives students an opportunity to pursue their own interests; the College has created an environment that encourages students to do so.”
Ellis agrees and emphasizes the quality of education at Lafayette.
“There are a variety of classes to choose from, which has allowed me to follow the areas of psychology that truly interest me, yet also take other classes outside of psychology that also grab my interest,” she says. “I enjoy my French major immensely. The professors are all extremely knowledgeable, and they enjoy helping their students gain a greater comprehension of not just the French language but the culture and history as well.”
After graduation Ellis plans to pursue a master’s degree in psychology. She also is considering joining the Peace Corps for service in a French-speaking country.
Duhl believes the knowledge Ellis has gained from completing an independent study project will serve her well in whatever she pursues in the future.
“She learned a great deal about the process of extensive research as well as other subjects that may be relevant even when studying psychology,” says Duhl.
Ellis is a member of psychology national honor society Psi Chi, Experience Lafayette Committee, Le Cercle Francais (French Club), Field Hockey Club, Concert Choir, and Delta Delta Delta sorority. She volunteers with the Best Buddies program through the Landis Community Outreach Center. She also participated in the Marquis Players’ production of Once Upon a Mattress, the yearly musical for charity.
Independent study projects are among several major programs that have made Lafayette a national leader in undergraduate research. The College sends one of the largest contingents to the National Conference on Undergraduate Research each year; 21 students were accepted to present their research at this year’s conference.