Mémoires de Mme la Comtesse de Genlis

by Stéphanie Félicité Genlis

"Mémoires de Mme la Comtesse de Genlis" by comtesse de Stéphanie Félicité Genlis is a collection of memoirs written in the late 18th century and early 19th century. This autobiographical work chronicles the life and experiences of Genlis, a notable French writer and educator, as she reflects on her engagements in the aristocratic society of her time, her role as a governess to the young princes of Orléans, and the societal upheaval surrounding the French Revolution. The opening of the memoir introduces readers to the life of the comtesse, detailing her extraordinary childhood beginnings, including her survival against various childhood accidents. From the outset, she presents her intention to recount the vibrant society she participated in, claiming that her experiences are of interest due to both her literary life and her passion for arts and education. As Genlis progresses through her narrative, she touches upon her education, family, and influential figures in her life, which all set the stage for the rich anecdotes and reflections to follow as she navigates her personal and social journeys throughout the tumultuous times of the late 18th century France.