The Department of Romance Languages and Literatures (RLL) at Washington University offers vibrant programs in French, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish. Each course of study ranges from beginning language courses, in which students gain proficiency in speaking, reading, writing, and comprehending a language, to the most advanced literature courses, where students gain a rich and comprehensive understanding of the patterns of everyday life of a nation, its history, geography, and cultural influence. All courses focus on culture writ large. Students study great texts with an eye to gender roles, traditions, communities, individual freedom, social obligations, and many other topics of critical importance today. For art lovers, aspiring chefs and those who wish to see the world, the French program offers preparation in language, literature, culture, film, and opportunities for study abroad. Our undergraduate program features a rich variety of courses for students interested in studying French in relationship to philosophy and politics as well as to the sciences and the arts.