A Short History of French Literature [Paperback]

This book traces the history of French literature from its beginnings to the present. Within its remarkably brief compass, it offers a wide-ranging, personal, and detailed--though selective--account of major writers and movements. Developments in French literature are presented in an innovative way, not as an even sequence of literary events but as a series of stories told at varying pace and with different kinds of focus. Readers can thus take in the broad sweep of historical change, grasp the main characteristics of major periods, or enjoy a close appraisal of individual works and their contexts. The book is written in an accessible and non-technical style that will make it attractive both to students of French and to non-specialist readers.

Preface
Introduction
Part I: The Middle Ages: From the Earliest Texts to 1470
Overview
Main Narrative
Part II: The Early Modern Period: 1470-1789
Overview
Main Narrative
Part III: The Modern Period: 1789-2000
Overview
Main Narrative
Appendices

One of the many attractions in this volume is that it actively retrieves what Kay calls the casualties of literary history. --Times Literary Supplement

Thoughtfully organized, this version of the story of French literature is masterfully told.... It is the telling of the story against the rich backdrop of historical and social contexts that makes this overview so important. That all the information in this book can coexist in a format that is such an enjoyable read is truly remarkable.... Essential. --Choice