The chapters of this book have been divided into 16 color-coded regions that reflect the diversity of France. These are based on the country's historical regions that were often defined by their geography and landscape as much as by their influence and power. Each has developed its own special flavor; its own architecture, cuisine, customs, music, dress, dialect and even language. The pages of the Eyewitness Travel Guide will give a taste of these areas and show you what there is to see and do.
Added by: Kahena | Karma: 11524.33 | Fiction literature | 29 October 2010
2
A Heroine of France
"The age of Chivalry - alas! - is dead. The days of miracles are past and gone! What future is there for hapless France? She lies in the dust. How can she hope to rise?" Sir Guy de Laval looked full in our faces as he spoke these words, and what could one reply? Ah me! - those were sad and sorrowful days for France - and for those who thought upon the bygone glories of the past, when she was mistress of herself, held high her head, and was a power with hostile nations. What would the great Charlemagne say, could he see us now? What would even St. Louis of blessed memory feel, could he witness the changes wrought by only a century and a half?
After completing his research for Democracy in America, Alexis de Tocqueville turned to the French consolidation of its empire in North Africa, which he believed deserving of similar attention. Tocqueville began studying Algerian history and culture, making two trips to Algeria in 1841 and 1846. He quickly became one of France's foremost experts on the country and wrote essays, articles, official letters, and parliamentary reports on such diverse topics as France's military and administrative policies in North Africa, the people of the Maghrib...
Kent's popular naval hero returns to England after the capture of Martinique and finds a brief respite in the arms of his mistress, Lady Catherine Somervell. But a new conflict looms, as France forges an alliance with America, threatening British trade routes.
For new residents, business travellers, holidaymakers, students and lovers of France everywhere, Speak the Culture: France is an engaging companion and guide to an enviably rich civilization at the heart of Europe.
