Subject
French language -- Glossaries, vocabularies, etc. Books
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Alfred Delvau
Dictionnaire érotique moderne
"Dictionnaire érotique moderne" by Alfred Delvau is a specialized lexicon on erotic language written in the mid-19th century. This work aims to catalog and explain a wide range of expressions related to eroticism that are not typically found in standard dictionaries. It serves as a guide to the colorful and often risqué vernacular used in intimate contexts, reflecting societal attitudes towards sexuality during its time. The opening of the book sets the stage for Delvau's ambitious project, as he discusses the absence of comprehensive erotic dictionaries prior to his work. He critiques the reluctance of past authors to address sexual language directly, suggesting that a lexicon of this nature is essential for both casual readers and scholars alike. Delvau emphasizes his commitment to honest and explicit language, stating that he avoids euphemisms and ambiguities to bring clarity to the terms of erotic discourse. He invites readers to view this dictionary as an insightful exploration of the language surrounding love and desire rather than simply a collection of obscene terms, highlighting the importance of such language in understanding the culture of his era.
N.-J. (Nicolas-Joseph) Carpentier
Dictionnaire du bon langage Contenant les difficultés de la langue française, les règles et les fautes de prononciation, les locutions vicieuses, les wallonnismes, les flandricismes, etc.
"Dictionnaire du bon langage" by N.-J. Carpentier is a reference book focused on the nuances and correct usage of the French language, written in the mid-19th century. This work serves as a guide for addressing common linguistic difficulties, mispronunciations, and inappropriate expressions, particularly for speakers from Wallonia and Flanders, as well as for those wishing to refine their French. The author emphasizes the need for learners to not only learn the rules of proper language but also to unlearn bad habits acquired through regional dialects and incorrect usage. At the start of the text, Carpentier introduces the purpose of the "Dictionnaire," highlighting the importance of addressing the pronunciation and expression errors commonly found among various French-speaking populations. He underscores the educational gaps in teaching standard French and aims to provide a comprehensive resource that addresses both negative (errors) and positive (correct usage) aspects of the language. The opening portion outlines the dictionary's structure and the dual approach it takes: identifying common linguistic faults while offering solutions for effective communication.
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