Monica Perez is a student of the FIU Honors College pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Religious Studies. After graduating, she intends to obtain a PhD in Clinical Psychology and conduct research. With an interest in ecopsychology, she hopes to use elements of nature and the environment to treat various psychological conditions. Her current motto is “seek radical empathy” as she strives to understand and share in others’ thoughts and life experiences.
France Encounter and Over-Under as Text
“Cité, the Way Home”
By Monica B. Paris of FIU in Paris between 1 and 8 July, 2023
Happiness is the most complex aspect of the human experience, yet it is arguably the most important. There are many things (material and non-material, internal and external) that may evoke it or drain it from us, and without it, we die (from depression or another illness). Many may even bypass the most basic needs like food or shelter just to experience a moment of happiness. Two things that may reflect and evoke happiness are art and nature, and incorporating them into our daily lives may encourage feelings of happiness, or at the very least contentment. Paris is a prime example of a city that normalizes artistic expression and incorporation of nature, therefore promoting happiness unintentionally. There is no better way to explore this idea than by a metro station located at its center: Cité.
A prime manifestation of Paris’ monotonous art is the Cité metro station within line 4 of the public transportation system. It’s name comes from Île de la Cité, an Island on the river Seine in the center of Paris. The first inhabitants of Paris, called the Parisii by the Romans, first settled there in the 4th century. Clovis I, the first king of France, built his palace on this island, and it is now home to several important religious and political sites. The stop itself was opened on December 10, 1910, and it is still the only metro stop on the island. The inside of the station is lined with nautical and antique walls, railings, and light fixtures, welcoming the public to the heart of Paris.
Upon exiting the station, one will notice a metro sign in the style of Art Nouveau, which juxtaposes modernity and elements of nature in a rejection of its more academic and historic aesthetic predecessors. It was designed by Hector Guimard, the architect responsible for numerous metro stops in Paris. Ironically, he embraced modernity by incorporating the shapes and color of nature, a revolutionary act for the time. This differs heavily from the United States, more specifically Miami, which is usually adorned with Mediterranean Revival style, which is inspired by more fantastical and ornate design choices. Instead of reflecting nature, it emulates Spanish and Colonial Architecture and adapts them for a modern and more humble client. Unlike Mediterranean Revival Style, Art Nouveau reflects both nature and humanity back to the public, promoting a unique connectedness that encourages happiness.
A more overt incorporation of nature is presented at the Place Louis Lépine, the location of the Cité station’s only entrance. Named after a notable prefect of the police, the square is home to both the current prefecture to the police and Paris’ famous Marché Aux Fleurs, an exotic plant market that once also sold exotic birds. Regardless of whether visitors decide to purchase greenery at the market, the mere presence of plants promotes connectedness to nature and a calming atmosphere. Right across from the square is the river Seine, which despite being heavily worked on is an integral part to the city. There is a long-standing idea that rivers are the fuel for civilization because they bring drinking water, bathing water, and food. As Paris has developed, however, the Seine continues to bring life into the city as small boats sail across it and people gather in the afternoons to build community. The integration of nature into society promotes happiness because it connects people to themselves and others.
Besides more privileged areas like Coral Gables and Coconut Grove, Miami‘s government does a poor job at fostering the connection between its inhabitants and nature. Patches of land are few and far between, and those which are present are heavily trimmed and tamed. This colder approach to nature does not appeal so much to the feeling of happiness as in Paris because it is stifling natures original growth. This may lessen the feelings of connectedness with nature, lessening opportunities to promote happiness.
In close proximity to the metro stop are several significant religious, political, and generally historic sites such as the Palais de la Cité, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, the Sainte Chapelle, Hôtel-Dieu, the Palais de Justice de Paris. Because the area is so close to older historic sites, both natives and visitors are invited to connect with their geographical and perhaps genetic ancestors. Access to historic buildings (constructed with artistry in mind) reflects the unique human experience back onto those around them and further promote community, connectedness, and happiness.
When discovering Paris through Cité, one realizes that Paris is a city that truly promotes community and creates space for happiness to flow. Incorporation of art, nature, and the presence of historic sites are just some ways that this feat is accomplished. Compared to Miami, Paris takes a special approach to designing the city which affects the lives of citizens very differently. This statement is not to negate the faults of the city nor the true injustices that may impede on personal and communal happiness. It is also not meant to idealize the city. However, there seem to be several things Miami can learn from Paris on unintentionally promoting happiness.
Versailles as Text
“The Deadliest Weapon”
By Monica B. Perez of FIU at Versailles on 9 July, 2023
Art is an integral part of what it means to be human. It appeals to the physical body through the senses, and it appeals to the mind by exploring feelings, experiences and philosophy. This makes it a powerful tool because it both reflects and influences the human experience. Religious and political institutions alike have utilized this tool to sway the public into believing something that may or may not be true. Churches hold some of the most beautiful artistic expressions that were created to remind the public of their sins and duty to God. Political cartoons and propaganda have been used to urge people to support or reject a cause or idea; these methods are extremely effective because they appeal to human emotion, using the senses as a distraction. The palace of Versailles is the perfect example for a structure that utilizes art for both political and religious control.
The palace of Versailles was originally a hunting lodge for the royal family. In 1683, King Louis XIV moved the court to Versailles to seek safety. Louis became king at the age of four; with this and the frequent attacks on his family from the mob, he was forced to grow up very quickly. His experiences resulted in a quick maturation, and because of this, he kept close eyes on his court by imposing strict rules and structure. In further efforts to keep his people in line, he utilized art and religion to appeal to the sensibilities of his people.
The ultimate way to convince the people that he was fit to rule was establishing his divine right to rule. To avoid the label of heretic, he compared himself to Apollo, god of the sun, and Mars, god of war. Numerous statues and paintings in the palace place his face into battle scenes and common mythologies to convey this message; even the entry gates depict Louis’s face in the sun to convey that he shines light onto the people, illuminating their lives with his glory. For this, he was nicknamed the Sun King. To reinforce these claims, Louis hires a French artist to transform architecture and create the Rococo aesthetic. Characterized by decadence and excess, this style is the embodiment of heaven on earth.
When walking through the palace, the public was met with constant reminders of the greatness of Louis XIV. Some of these reminders were non-religious yet completely effective. The hall of mirrors is the best example of this. The mirrors are strategically places opposite windows to reflect light throughout the hall, and both sides are lined with gold decor to further push the motif of the son illuminating the life of every visitor. The gardens are equally impressive as they use both art and science to leave spectators speechless. While some depict common mythologies or the Sun King himself, others are simply spectacular feats of science.
It is important to note the balance between art and control is delicate, as excess alone will not be effective in controlling the will of a nation. If the people are not constantly reminded why they need to suffer constantly, they will rebel. When Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette occupied the palace, Marie’s over-indulgence infuriated the people of France. Though her actions were just as selfish as Louis XIV, he kept the people in line with his conviction and constant reminders of his divine right to rule.
The controversies surrounding Versailles are many; it is clear that the exploitation of an entire country for personal glorification is immoral. However, the whims of these selfish people draw visitors from around the world, bringing constant revenue to France. The debate of objective morality is nearly impossible, but it is a clear that this marvel would not be here today without the use of art for political and religious gain. It is a reminder that while art is beautiful and impressive, we should remember that it too can be used to sway public opinion.
Resistance as Text
“Becoming a Hero”
By Monica B. Perez of FIU in Lyon, France
What makes a person a hero? Are people born heroic? What does it take to become a hero? All these questions came to mind as I learned of the incredible acts of French Resistance fighters during the Second World War. While some members were public figures who used their influence or charm for a worthy cause, others were simply ordinary men, women, and teenagers who had little political influence and wanted to make a difference. As a woman, you are told that there is not much you can do to fight injustice besides stay home and support the men fighting in combat, but that is a lie. In hearing the stories of courageous women who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today, I begin to answer the questions I asked before.
Josephine Baker was born June 03, 1906 in the United States, but her rise to fame and influence was centered mostly in Europe. In 1939, she began her involvement as a correspondent for the French military. She also used her career as an entertainer to smuggle messages for the French Resistance. Her existence as a black entertainer alone made her a target for violence and discrimination, but she put her life on the line even more-so to fight for herself and other targets to Nazi hatred. Today, she is the only American buried in the French Pantheon. This story is extremely compelling to me personally because it blends cunning and intelligence with beauty and artistry. With the constant budget cuts and defunding of art programs in the United States, lies are pushed that the arts are a shallow and pointless profession. Baker’s story reinforces the truth that artists are profound, courageous, and powerful. It reminds us that heroes come in all shapes, sizes, colors, genders, and professions.
Denise Vernay-Jacob was born June 21, 1924 in Paris, France. When she was just 17, she carried out her first resistance acts by distributing anti-fascist educational materials. After being forced to relocate to Nice, she became an official member of the French Resistance at just 19 years old. Entering the movement as Miarka, she continued her acts of resistance before being caught and held in Montluc before being transferred to other prisons. There, she was tortured and brought to the brink of death several times, not once revealing the names or information of her correspondents. Despite being ethnically Jewish, she was able to mask her identity and escape automatic execution. After being rescued by the Red Cross, she lived a relatively normal life besides testifying and speaking on her experience, creating a beautiful family in the meantime. Vernay’s story is inspiring for so many reasons, but what struck me the most was that many full-fledged adults would not be able to endure half the atrocities she did as a teenager. It shows that people are just born with such heroic qualities, and it caused me to wonder if anyone could become a hero. More specifically, can I become a hero?
Sometimes, asking what it takes to become a hero is similar to asking what makes a diamond. Under intense pressure and severe conditions, a rock becomes a beautiful and valuable material. Some take more pressure than others, and some rocks never become diamonds. I pondered heavily about whether I could be a diamond, and in all honesty, I will not know until I am faced with the chance to become one. Now, however, I realize there are so many ways to exercise my strength and talents to become a hero when I am needed. Just as diamonds are the hardest materials used for both jewelry and weaponry, heroes have courage and strength whether it manifests in beauty or combat. However, the stories of female heroes of World War II often remain untold, leading many of us to believe we cannot achieve what they did. Now more than ever, it is crucial to tell the stories frequently and accurately, free of censorship, whitewashing, sexualization, and romanticization.
Normandy As Text
“Stepping Up”
By Monica B. Perez of FIU as Normandy Cemetery
It is easy to idealize figures of the past, especially when there is such little information on their most intimate thoughts and feelings compared to the substantial information on their greatest feats and accomplishments. This issue becomes more intricate when age and comparison is involved. One starts to think about their own accomplishments relative to age and doubt their own abilities or character. This happened to me upon learning about the young men and women who laid their life on the line for their country, their loved ones, and the idea of universal human rights during World War II. When thinking about the level of strength, courage, and and confidence it takes to make such a decision, I was in a kind of disbelief. I started to doubt myself and my own ability to commit to such a decision, but in researching the history of Billy D. And Peggy Harris, I have gained some perspective on what it takes to be ready for such a decision.
Billy Dowe Harris was born October 14, 1922 in Jackson County, Oklahoma. He came from a military family, so while he was stationed in San Antonio, his father, Neil Harris was still working at the Atlus Air Force Base. There, Neil met Peggy Seale, and knew they would be perfect for each other. After some time communicating through the mail and a few in-person meetings, they were married September 22, 1943. Just six weeks into their marriage, Harris was called in to serve once more and was assigned to the 354th Fighter Group, 355th Fighter Squadron, and their two-week honeymoon was cut short. After a courageous acceptance of the position, he kissed his wife goodbye, not knowing it would be for the last time.
On July 17, 1944, Harris’ plane was shot and was estimated to crash in the town of Les Ventes, France. He was able to skillfully redirect it to crash outside of the town, avoiding the loss of many civilian lives. After his body was recovered, he was buried, a service was held, and the local population memorialized him with a plaza named after him. There was also a statue built in his honor. He was, however, misidentified as a Canadian rather than an American pilot, the first in a series of mistakes that would keep Harris’ family from the truth, Meanwhile, Peggy had no idea the extent of her husband’s heroism. For 62 years, Peggy was given no news of where her husband was or if he was even alive. He was deemed missing in action, but she was unsatisfied. Despite writing multiple letters to multiple government officials, it was Billy’s cousin that was able to connect Peggy to her husband’s grave. In 2012, she was able to visit him for the first time. To make up for lost time, she would send flowers approximately 10 times a year (for several holidays and special occasions). When visiting the Normandy cemetery, she developed strong connections with the workers and would share her husband’s story with as many visitors possible. She passed away in 2020. She never remarried.
I was originally drawn to this story because of the persisting love and infatuation Peggy had for Billie. Her devotion to him is admirable and poetic. After getting to know their story more profoundly, I realize it is a story about commitment. Both of these inspiring individuals were committed to their country: one as a pilot, the other as a mechanic. Through this commitment, they were also dedicated to many of the very principles I stand for today like universal human rights. Because Harris was my age, 21, when he passed, I started to think about how we relate to each other. While he was able to commit to such a feat, knowing it could cost him his life, most of my own commitments are to myself. This story had inspired me to commit myself more seriously to causes bigger than myself but still close to my heart. I mark this as the moment I commit to fight more actively for the systemically oppressed in my own country and outside of it.
Père Lachaise as Text
“Free to Move”
By Monica B. Perez of FIU at Père Lachaise Cemetery
Art is the perfect expression of the human experience. It simultaneously influences and reflects the state humanity, oftentimes making it a tool for empowerment. This is best observed by studying art movements or styles and how they interact. The most compelling movements are those that break the tradition or rules set by the previous movement or more classical style because the rigid structures can often be constricting. The liberation of movement and dance can best be studied in the life of Isadora Duncan, the mother of modern dance.
Duncan was born May 26, 1877 in San Francisco, California. She was born a free spirit, evidenced by her leaving her academic studies at age ten because she found them far too constricting. She attended and taught dance classes, developing an alternative style that would be subject to equal acclaim as criticism. As a teenager, she auditioned for several companies in the United States with little to no success. This urged her to move to Europe, where her career took off. She toured with several successful artists before renting a studio, developing her craft, and garnering enough support to tour on her own. She drew inspiration from ancient Greek paintings, statues, mythologies, and fashion. The free nature style of life and dress inspired much of her movement style, deviating from the rigid nature of ballet and moving toward what she described to be “natural movement”. She established several schools in Europe and the United States, and though none of them are open today, studios across the world teach styles informed by her innovations.
Duncan’s personal life was congruent to her alternative dance style. She had multiple romantic partners, both men and women, and was divorced several times. She was criticized for her sexual promiscuity, especially how it carried into her performance. She danced with bare legs rather than tights and wore a scarf which became her signature accessory both on and off the stage. She bore three children and adopted six students that became known as the Isadorables. Though three of her children passed, her adopted children went off to teach her method across the world. Duncan’s grief from the loss of her children couples with the fast passed artist lifestyle seemed to affect her deeply as she spent most days intoxicated and depressed. Her life was cut short on September 14, 1927, when her scarf was caught on a the wheel of a car and propelled her onto the street behind her. She was buried with her children in the Père Lachaise Cemetery.
I was drawn to Isadora’s story because of the impact modern dance has had on my own life. It makes for great exercise and allows me to express myself without words. As an adolescent, it helped me process the complex emotions that came about from my social troubles and difficult home life. As a child and still today, I find myself stuck in the rigid structures of society in many ways. I am criticized for my life philosophies, way of dress, and my sexual orientation. I identify so much with Isadora because of this, and her story, however tragic, affirms the success that comes when you embrace yourself and find community with those who have the same innovative spirit as you. I have Isadora to thank for founding a style of movement that in so many ways has saved my life.
France as Text
“Going Home”
By Monica B. Perez of FIU in France
I knew studying abroad in France for a month would be a life-changing experience, but I had no idea just how much. For one, I feel extremely intellectually stimulated. I have connected very deeply with topics that have very little to do with my major, which has challenged me and promoted much personal and academic growth. On another note, having conversations with individuals from such diverse backgrounds has enriched my own inner world. Lastly, I have been captivated by new scenery and a new way of life. This introduction to other ways of living has expanded my perception of what my life could be.
There are so many academic benefits to studying abroad. It is no secret that reading about history is no comparison to walking through it. However, the structure of this course is like no other because Professor Bailly tackles all fronts simultaneously. He refers to our classes as “walking lectures” but it is so much more than that. He presents well-researched and properly sourced information; we engage in academic and personal discussion about the information; and we see, touch, hear, smell, and sometimes taste the subjects we speak about. This complete immersion is an experience no program could ever recreate, and it is an integral part of what makes this program highly competitive.
The moment I truly internalized this was in Montmarte. I made a comment I regret deeply, something about not needing to climb the stairs to visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Professor Bailly responded with an even wittier comment about cutting class short and going home. Despite my extensive experience with his courses as a student and Teaching Assistant, it was that moment I realized that I was taking the experience for granted. The lecture would not have penetrated my mind in the same way from a lecture hall or even from the bottom of the steps. I had to be there. Our presence at the sites builds a personal connection to the place and its history. The spring semester set the foundation for the content I would engage with in the summer, but I did not feel so personally connected to it as I do now.
Another unique element to this trip that made it so special to me was the people around me. Professor Bailly’s connections in Europe connected me to people and topics that I never thought I would be able to connect to. From knowledgeable tour guides, artists and successful businesswomen to a Holocaust survivor and son of a Resistance Fighter, I have had the honor and privilege to hear from and shake hands with people others can only dream of meeting. Here, again, I connect even more deeply with the course material, helping me grow as a student and a person. One group of people I did not expect to learn so much from was my peers. Coming from such diverse backgrounds, we all have different connections to the subjects we learn about in class. This is makes sharing our reflections all the more important. Having access to this website and archiving our academic reflections gives me the chance to hear from my peers in ways other students cannot. The most profound connection I have made through my peers, however, is through our class presentations at Normandy cemetery. Again, being stimulated by the sound of my peers’s voices and seeing the looks of passion on their faces created a bond I will have in my heart forever. I know they were extremely anxious for the presentations (I was too), but I do not think this class would have been the same without them (my peers or their presentations).
Exploring France with my peers has also helped me better understand a different way of life. Both inside and outside of class, we have immersed ourselves into the culture by making use of certain services and engaging in specific cultural practices. For one, the use of public transportation has greatly affected how I function in France. By taking the Paris Metro to and from class and for running errands, I save time and money and have a fast and reliable way to navigate the city. Access to public parks and water fountains is another public service I will miss greatly as they are very well integrated into cities compared to Miami. These services are great reminders to slow down and enjoy life a bit more.
This focus on enjoying life carries into engaging in certain behaviors that are not so commonly observed in Miami. For one, it is very common to spend time on in public spaces like parks or rivers to sit down and talk about whatever comes to mind. For me, it has been a great chance to get to know my classmates in a more personal way. We discuss course topics like art and human rights and how they may relate to our personal lives. While these types of conversations are not encouraged in the United States, they are an integral part of French culture. This practice is one I will take with me to Miami because I enjoy stimulating my own thoughts and gaining new perspectives. Participating in “cafe culture” is another great way to have these conversations in a different setting. My favorite conversation occurred just after a very intense lecture on the atrocities done by the Nazis during the Second World War. My peers and I ate at a cafe near the museum we took class in, and we talked for over five hours. We joked, we laughed, and we engaged in so profound conversations that challenged us intellectually and also brought us together. I do not believe we would’ve had the chance to engage in this kind of conversation so comfortably without that lecture or the city’s focus on true, uncensored conversation.
I know that this month is only the start of my journey into my adult life. As I graduate in the next few days, I think about how this experience has kickstarted a new era in my life. I feel so much more capable and independent than I did before. In my successes and missteps, I have grown so much as a student and as a person. In connecting to important and knowledgeable people, I feel that I have connected much more personally to the course material and how it affects life today. In connecting with my peers, I have expanded my ways of thought because I get to hear from new and informed perspectives. In completely I’m speeding myself in French culture, I have learned so much about the world and much I still have yet to see. This class would be entirely different without such a thoughtful Professor and such incredible classmates. I return home with a new perspective on life, ready to take on whatever comes next.
Miami in Miami 