F. (François) Génin
Lexique comparé de la langue de Molière et des écrivains du XVIIe siècle
"Lexique comparé de la langue de Molière et des écrivains du XVIIe siècle" by F. Génin is a scholarly publication written in the mid-19th century. This work focuses on the intricacies of the French language as utilized by Molière and other notable writers of the 17th century, highlighting the evolution and variations present within the language during this period. The book aims to enrich understanding of French philology, particularly through the lens of notable literary figures. The opening of the book introduces the reader to the premise of comparing and analyzing the language of Molière alongside that of his contemporaries. The author discusses the unique evolution of the French language, noting the shifts and variations that occurred from its Latin roots to the renaissance period. Génin emphasizes the need to return to the traditional and popular origins of the language, arguing that the styles of 17th-century writers reveal much about the historical context and linguistic development of their time. The chapters that follow promise to delve into Molière’s life, his contributions to French literature, and the linguistic elements that characterize his works, thereby setting the stage for a detailed examination of the language used in major literary pieces of the era.