Subject
Paris (France) -- Social life and customs -- 19th century Books
Best books
Albert D. (Albert Dresden) Vandam
An Englishman in Paris: Notes and Recollections
"An Englishman in Paris: Notes and Recollections" by Albert D. Vandam is a collection of autobiographical reflections and observations written in the late 19th century. The book captures the bohemian spirit of the Quartier-Latin during the late 1830s, illustrating the lives, eccentricities, and social dynamics of artists and students in Paris. Through Vandam’s narratives, readers are introduced to colorful characters and the lively atmosphere that characterized the artistic community of the time. The opening of this work describes the Quartier-Latin as it was experienced by the author, who recounts his early interactions with its notable figures and institutions, particularly focusing on "La Childebert", a renowned meeting place for artists. Vandam paints a vivid picture of the raucous life in this enclave, detailing practical jokes, artistic aspirations, and the vibrant personalities that populated the area. He introduces readers to the caricature of Bouginier, which became a local sensation, and explores the image's impact on the inhabitants of the quarter. The narrative reflects a blend of humor and nostalgia, highlighting the informal, yet passionate life dedicated to art, creativity, and camaraderie among young artists.
Francis Hervé
How to Enjoy Paris in 1842 Intended to Serve as a Companion and Monitor, Containing Historical, Political, Commercial, Artistical, Theatrical And Statistical Information
"How to Enjoy Paris in 1842" by Francis Hervé is a travel guide written in the early 19th century. The work aims to provide useful information to English travelers visiting Paris, covering aspects such as historical, political, and cultural insights, alongside practical advice for navigating the city and interacting with locals while avoiding tourist traps. Hervé endeavors to blend useful knowledge with an engaging narrative to enhance the visitor's experience. The opening of the book sets the tone for a practical companion designed for English visitors to Paris. Hervé expresses his aim to alleviate common grievances among travelers, notably the challenges of dealing with Parisian shopkeepers and cultural misunderstandings. He emphasizes the importance of a positive demeanor when interacting with the French, warning against national prejudice that may hinder one's experience. The first chapter begins by offering insights on appropriate behavior and expectations when engaging with the Parisian populace, illustrated through the contrasting experiences of two English brothers traveling together, one possessing an optimistic outlook and the other a disparaging attitude toward their surroundings.
Frances Milton Trollope
Paris and the Parisians in 1835 (Vol. 2)
"Paris and the Parisians in 1835 (Vol. 2)" by Frances Milton Trollope is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The book provides a detailed observation of life in Paris, focusing on the distinct characteristics of Parisian society, fashion, and culture during this period. Trollope's writing examines the French social scene, contrasting it with English norms and highlighting unique aspects of Parisian life. The opening of this volume begins with a letter that reflects on the distinctive air of Frenchwomen and their inimitable style, which is immediately recognizable to anyone familiar with the English. Trollope elaborates on the intricacies of Parisian fashion and the societal expectations tied to personal appearance. She contrasts the dress culture between English and French women, noting the former's elaborate changes throughout the day versus the simpler French approach. This letter sets the stage for a wider examination of Parisian life, and it foreshadows discussions on social gatherings, politics, and the city’s vibrant artistic culture that Trollope intends to explore in subsequent letters.
Frances Milton Trollope
Paris and the Parisians in 1835 (Vol. 1)
"Paris and the Parisians in 1835" by Frances Milton Trollope is a travel literature work written in the early 19th century. The book serves as a collection of letters detailing Trollope's observations and experiences during her time in Paris, capturing the essence of the city and its inhabitants after a significant political upheaval. The narrative not only reflects the societal changes in France but also Trollope's personal reflections on the cultural climate of the time. The opening of the book sets the stage for a reflective and multifaceted exploration of Paris post-revolution. Trollope expresses her excitement at revisiting the city after several years and immediately notices both familiar and new elements in its landscape. She acknowledges the difficulties of comprehensively capturing the dynamism of Paris and hints at the vibrant political atmosphere surrounding her visit, particularly with the upcoming trial of the Lyons prisoners stirring public sentiment. Through her letters, she seeks to convey the lively sociopolitical fabric of the city, blending insights on architecture, art, and culture with personal anecdotes, as she navigates a Paris that straddles the line between its vibrant past and an evolving present.
Edmond de Goncourt
Journal des Goncourt (Troisième série, troisième volume) Mémoires de la vie littéraire
"Journal des Goncourt (Troisième série, troisième volume)" by Edmond and Jules de Goncourt is a diary written collaboratively from 1850 to 1896. This candid chronicle captures the literary and artistic world of Paris, documenting bitter rivalries, friendships, and café conversations that shaped the byzantine literary hierarchy. Through dual dictation and meticulous observation, the brothers recorded intimate details of their encounters with contemporaries like Flaubert, Zola, and Daudet. Their unflinching commentary on failures, successes, and borrowed ideas created both a remarkable historical document and strained relationships with surviving friends.
R. H. (Rees Howell) Gronow
Reminiscences of Captain Gronow
"Reminiscences of Captain Gronow" by Captain Rees Howell Gronow is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The text serves as a collection of anecdotes from Gronow's experiences as a soldier in the British army during the Regency period and the Napoleonic Wars. Through his recollections, the book likely provides a vivid glimpse into the military culture, social life, and notable figures of the time, emphasizing character sketches and events that shaped his life and times. The opening of the memoir introduces Captain Gronow, who reflects on his life experiences during a significant period in British history. He recounts his entry into the army and the limited military education officers received at that time, underscoring the reliance on drills and physical prowess over formal training. As Gronow shares his first impressions of military camaraderie, the challenges faced during campaigns in Spain, and personal insights about fellow soldiers and commanders, the groundwork is laid for a rich tapestry of anecdotes that highlight both the rigors of war and the lighter aspects of soldiering. The combination of personal narrative and historical context promises readers a blend of entertainment and education about a pivotal era in England's military past.
Georges Montorgueil
Les Parisiennes d'à présent
"Les Parisiennes d'à présent" by Georges Montorgueil is a social commentary written in the late 19th century. This work reflects on the evolving roles and perceptions of women in Parisian society during a pivotal time of feminist awakening and social change. The narrative delves into the daily lives, ambitions, and societal challenges faced by women, depicting a rich tapestry of characters as they navigate their desires and assert their rights. The opening of the text introduces a variety of female experiences against the backdrop of Paris in the years 1896-97, a period marked by significant strides toward women's emancipation. It highlights a feminist awakening as many women demand a say in the laws governing their lives, deeply questioning societal norms and the expectations placed upon them. With lively anecdotes and observations, the text sets the tone for exploring key events such as women's rights movements, social gatherings, and evolving personal styles, providing insights into how these changes resonate in both personal and communal spheres.
Frances Milton Trollope
Paris romantique: Voyage en France de Mrs. Trollope (Avril-Juin 1835)
"Paris romantique: Voyage en France de Mrs. Trollope" by Trollope is a travel memoir written in the early 19th century. The book captures the experiences of Frances Trollope, an English lady, who visits Paris in the spring of 1835, sharing her keen observations of the city's society, culture, and politics. Throughout the narrative, she provides a unique British perspective on French life, contrasting her impressions with the customs of her home country. The opening of the memoir introduces Mrs. Trollope and outlines her background as a prolific writer and keen observer of society. It describes her reflections on her travel to Paris, wherein she navigates social circles, captures the vibrancy of the city's populace, and critiques the political tensions of her time. Mrs. Trollope's correspondence includes observations on the moral contrasts between French and English societies, her experiences at various events, and her appreciation for the aesthetic beauty of Parisian culture, all while expressing both admiration and disdain for certain social behaviors.
W. G. C. (Willem Geertrudus Cornelis) Byvanck
Un hollandais à Paris en 1891: Sensations de littérature et d'art
"Un hollandais à Paris en 1891: Sensations de littérature et d'art" by W. G. C. Byvanck is a reflective travelogue written in the late 19th century. The work captures the author's experiences and observations during his time in Paris, showcasing intricate interactions with notable figures in literature and art. Through a series of encounters, Byvanck explores the vibrant cultural scene of Paris, the literary movements of the era, and the humanistic qualities of its populace, offering insights into the social and artistic milieu of the time. The opening of the book presents a preface that describes Byvanck's academic and literary pursuits, highlighting his keen insight into the interplay of ideas throughout history and across various cultures. It sets the stage for a journey through Paris where he interacts with prominent personalities like Marcel Schwob and Aristide Bruant. The narrative beckons readers to join Byvanck as he navigates the literary cafés and artistic salons, reflecting on the essence of life and the richness of artistic expression in 1890s Paris. With a blend of personal anecdotes and keen observations, the introduction lays a foundation for a deeper exploration of the connections between art, literature, and the human experience during a transformative period in European culture.
Edmond de Goncourt
Journal des Goncourt (Premier Volume) Mémoires de la vie littéraire
"Journal des Goncourt (Premier Volume)" by Edmond de Goncourt and Jules de Goncourt is a diary written collaboratively from 1850 to 1896. This candid chronicle captures the literary and artistic world of Paris, filled with bitter rivalries and volatile friendships. Through "dual dictation," the brothers recorded intimate conversations, professional jealousies, and unvarnished observations of their celebrated contemporaries—including Flaubert, Zola, Baudelaire, and Wilde. Their unflinching portraits of friends and rivals sparked controversy, strained relationships, and challenged notions of loyalty in their cutthroat cultural milieu.
Edmond de Goncourt
Journal des Goncourt (Deuxième volume) Mémoires de la vie littéraire
"Journal des Goncourt (Deuxième volume)" by Edmond de Goncourt and Jules de Goncourt is a diary written between 1850 and 1896. This candid chronicle captures the bitter rivalries and fragile friendships of Parisian literary and artistic society. Written through an unusual collaborative process the brothers called "dual dictation," the Journal records intimate conversations, professional jealousies, and personal disappointments with startling honesty. Their unflinching portrayals of famous contemporaries—including Zola, Flaubert, and Baudelaire—strained friendships and sparked controversy, making publication contentious for decades.
Edmond de Goncourt
Journal des Goncourt (Troisième volume) Mémoires de la vie littéraire
"Journal des Goncourt (Troisième volume)" by Edmond de Goncourt and Jules de Goncourt is a diary written collaboratively from 1850 to 1896. This unfiltered chronicle captures the bitter rivalries and complicated friendships of Parisian literary and artistic life. Written through "dual dictation" late at night, the brothers recorded conversations, gossip, and their own disappointments with remarkable candor. Their unflinching portraits of friends like Zola, Flaubert, and Daudet—often critical and backbiting—strained relationships and sparked controversy upon publication, revealing a world where café gatherings became battlegrounds for literary status.
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