When The World Spoke French (New York Review Books Classics)

The book, "When the World Spoke French," written by Marc Fumaroli and translated from French to English by Richard Howard, is well written and engaging. Each chapter of the book covers a different eighteenth century Enlightenment writer. These brief biographies encompass a wide number of individuals,such as,Francesco Algarottias well as perhaps lesser know lights including Lugi Riccoboni. Along with the biography is a sample of writing. These writings are quite often personal letters, and portions of essays. Many of the writers were not in fact French, but wrote in French and where highly influenced what was happening in France.

Anyone who is interested in eighteenth century history should read Fumaroli's book. I appreciated finding out more about what was taking place in the rest of the world while America was stirring towards Revolution. It really put things into perspective. Fumaroli's writing style makes the people in the book come alive. The adding together of all these individuals and their writing make for a sweep through European history that is far more interesting than the typical history book.

The 18th Century featured not only the Enlightenment, but also the supremacy of the French language, then almost inseparable from core notions & fashions of the era. In a tone not devoid of *esprit*, modern 17th & 18th Century authority Marc Fumaroli presents a distinguished portrait gallery of cosmopolitan Europeans (ie: other than from France), plus a few Americans, who conversed, corresponded, & authored works in French. Telling excerpts from their writings are included. A lighthearted book with many erudite details.

I found When The world Spoke French by Marc Fumaroli a valuable resource into the history of the eighteenth century. The material is presented in a manor which suggests or presumes that the reader has previous knowledge of people and facts of the period that most likely are unknown except to eighteenth century French scholars. For the academic scholar, the information is a treasure trove of resources for further investigation. Fumaroli offers historical information including personal correspondence which would otherwise require volumes of books and hours of research to access.

Aylin pointed it out but didn't exactly recommend it, since no one's read it yet. Interesting topic.

> Babelio : https://www.babelio.com/livres/Fumaroli-Quand-lEurope-parlait-francais/9928

> Vissière Jean-Louis. Marc Fumaroli : Quand l'Europe parlait français, 2001.
In: Dix-huitième Siècle, n°34, 2002. Christianisme et Lumières, sous la direction de Sylviane Albertan-Coppola et Antony McKenna. p. 597. … ; (en ligne),
URL : https://www.persee.fr/doc/dhs_0070-6760_2002_num_34_1_2515_t1_0597_0000_2