The spirit of French letters

Preface

The purpose of this book is to give such a survey of French letters as will show their connection with the conditions — political and economic — of each period which produced them. This brief survey is supplemented by translated extracts of outstanding examples, the choice sometimes being made to illustrate the author's reflection of the times and sometimes to exhibit his spirit or his workmanship.

Acknowledgment is made gratefully to publishers who have given courteous permission for reprinting, and to friends who have offered helpful criticisms and made translations.

Contents

CHAPTER PAGE

I. Through the Winter Days and After i

II. In Lyric Mood 14