Subject
French poetry -- 17th century Books
Best books
Nicolas Boileau Despréaux
Le Lutrin, poème héroï-comique
"Le Lutrin, poème héroï-comique" by Nicolas Boileau Despréaux is a mock-heroic poem published between 1672 and 1683. The work transforms a trivial dispute between a treasurer and a cantor into an epic parody, demonstrating that grand poetic forms can elevate even the most insignificant subjects. Unlike other parodies of its time, Boileau builds a serious literary work from mundane material rather than mocking noble themes. The poem also critiques contemporary literary trends, including popular novels and excessive use of allegory and mythology.
Unknown
La guirlande de Julie: augmentée de documents nouveaux
"La guirlande de Julie: augmentée de documents nouveaux" by Uzanne and Montausier is a famous French poetic manuscript from the 17th century. Created in 1638, this extraordinary work began when Charles de Sainte-Maure sought to win the heart of Julie d'Angennes by commissioning poets from the salon of Rambouillet to write verses. Each poem celebrates Julie through the language of flowers, calligraphed on vellum by Nicolas Jarry and illuminated with floral miniatures by Nicolas Robert—creating one of the most remarkable literary treasures of its era.
Pierre Corneille
L'occasion perdue recouverte
"L’occasion perdue recouverte" by Pierre Corneille is a poem written in the mid-17th century. The text revolves around the romantic entanglements between Lisandre and Cloris, showcasing themes of desire, seduction, and the complexities of love. The poem is known for its explicit nature and has been attributed to Corneille but is surrounded by controversy regarding its true authorship. The beginning of the poem introduces Lisandre, a lovesick man who approaches Cloris with an ardent desire that leads them into a secret encounter. As Cloris finds herself overwhelmed by Lisandre's passionate advances, an unexpected turn of events leads to a moment of impotence for Lisandre, complicating their romantic engagement and triggering feelings of shame and confusion. This dynamic sets the stage for further exploration of love’s trials, with Lisandre expressing his deep affection for Cloris while grappling with feelings of failure and the societal weight of their actions.
Marc Lescarbot
Adieu à la France Sur l'embarquement du sieur de Poutrincourt et de son Équipage faisant voile en la terre de Canadas dicte la France Occidentalle
"Adieu à la France" by Marc Lescarbot is a historical account written in the early 17th century. The book encapsulates the sentiments and reflections of the author as he bids farewell to France prior to embarking on a significant voyage to establish a French presence in Canada. It is a poetic narrative that combines personal emotion with the broader context of exploration and colonization. In the text, Lescarbot expresses his longing for France, celebrating its beauty and charm while simultaneously conveying his determination to pursue new opportunities across the ocean. The main character, Sieur de Poutrincourt, is depicted as a noble figure leading an expedition aimed at spreading Christianity and establishing Franco influence among indigenous peoples. Throughout the narrative, Lescarbot implores divine guidance for their voyage, hoping to ensure the success of their endeavor and the eventual establishment of a prosperous settlement in New France. The book encapsulates themes of ambition, faith, and the historical quest for glory during the age of exploration, showcasing a blend of personal aspiration and a profound sense of duty to his homeland and God.
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