Reflective Essay On Independent Studies

The Independent Study was similar to my preconceptions in regards to the amount of work the assignment called for, and the research that I would have to undertake. As I had completed the Research Project already, I knew what to expect in terms of workload, assessment requirements, and organisational features. However, it for a difference experience than I preconceived, regarding the final format. After concluding my research, I enjoyed presenting my findings and evidence of my learning in a flexible, interesting format. Both the written and oral piece allowed me to be creative while also giving me further insight into my topic. I believe the interesting format of the finishing assessment especially motivated me throughout the completion of the IDS.

My thinking about the French language and culture has greatly improved through my research during the IDS. I now have a greater understanding of French history, and the significance and symbolism of Les Misérables in French society. The novel

involved unfamiliar words, thus through the study I was able to extend my vocabulary. In addition, by using French sources in my research I have further developed my French language skills.

The research heavily influenced my own understanding on the separation between the social classes, and on French history. Before undertaking the IDS I had little understanding of French history, the French revolution, and societal structure. However, through my research I have expanded my knowledge and elicited deep thoughts about society, and broadened my understanding of the history of 18th century France, and the revolution. It also provided me with varying perspectives of society; by highlighting the daily struggle of those in the lower class, the novel enabled me to reflect on oppression and rebellion.

New learning included most historical aspects of the novel. Although I had some knowledge on Les Misérables prior to the IDS, I gained a better understanding of the storyline, and the message that was conveyed in particular. For the oral aspect, I took the role of a teacher, and taught the ‘class’ about the novel. Personally, it was difficult to condense all research into a 6-minute lesson. I believe that my beliefs are parallel to those expressed in Victor Hugo’s novel, and the themes he portrays resonate with me. The more I learnt about the thematic aspect of the novel, and Hugo’s motivation and inspiration for its creation, the more I came to admire what Les Misérables represents. My study of this novel helped me realize the stark contrast between each of the social classes, and the immense struggle and rebellion that was experience to gain equality.

This learning has also had a large impact on my thinking.

Through exploring the deeper meaning and thematic concepts of the musical, I have come to learn how to look beyond the obvious messages upon the surface and find deeper meanings. I know understand that the purpose of art forms such as this – to convey powerful messages to the audience. Through this experience, I will continue to seek meaning within art.

I am able to use the entire IDS experience in the future because the project not only allowed the further development of my academic research and organisational skills, but also deepened my understanding the French language and culture. I feel that this experience has inspired me, and given me the motivation to learn more about the French culture, especially the artistic aspect, and this period of French history in particular. Overall, the entire Independent Study was a highly beneficial experience, not only academically, but also in my personal development and

learning.

I chose to study Les Misérables because I thoroughly enjoyed the film, as the storyline sparked my interest, and it highlighted important societal themes, which are still prevalent today. In the study, I made links between the structure of 19th century French society, and Australia in the convict era. As I delved deeper into the novel, I discovered clear parallels between Australian and French history. I found it interesting how such culturally different societies both developed such similar societal hierarchies. Hugo portrays 19th century French society as very divided – the upper class, and the working class, lower class were clearly separated. This also occurred in colonial Australia, wherein the lower class were highly oppressed.

The written task allowed me to take the point of view of Valjean, the protagonist. This gave me a better understanding of the anguish the oppressed felt, and the gravity of the situation. Through this task, I realized the daily struggle and great problems the working class experienced.

Upon reflection, I learnt that the title, Les Misérables, was significant to the novel as it highlighted the novel’s focus: the desolate, miserable, underprivileged in society. The title summaries the plot as it conveys that the novel’s focus is on the poor. The author instills the struggle experienced, and the fight for a better life in the audience.