Three French Moralists and The Gallantry of France

Name: Three French Moralists and The Gallantry of France
Author: Edmund Gosse

By Edmund Gosse

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Essays, Letters & Speeches French Literature History - European History - Modern (1750+)Philosophy & Ethics

About This Book

A series of essays traces the moral and literary lineage linking three French moralists—La Rochefoucauld, La Bruyère, and Vauvenargues—to the notions of honor and gallantry that influenced French military temperament. It examines each writer's maxims and ethical outlook, then situates their ideas within accounts from young officers and contemporary letters to show how individualism, rhetoric of sacrifice, and chivalric idealism shaped early-war conduct. The book also considers how prolonged, industrialized conflict tempered those affectations, producing a more restrained, inward heroism while preserving underlying values of duty and patriotic fervor.

About the Author

Edmund Gosse

Edmund Gosse (1849-1928) was an English poet, author, and critic known for his insightful literary criticism and biographical works. He was a prominent figure in the literary scene of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing significantly to the understanding of contemporary literature. His notable works include "Father and Son: A Study of Two Temperaments," which explores the complex relationship between him and his father, and "Gossip in a Library," a collection of essays reflecting on various literary figures. Gosse's writings often blend personal reflection with broader cultural commentary, making him a key voice in the literary heritage of his time.