France is
renowned worldwide for being a nation of writers, poets, and philosophers.
Among the treasures of written expression, some phrases are emblematic of the
language of Molière. They immerse us in a journey through feelings and thoughts
that will help improve your level in French. Among the tips for learning
French, learning French through books is indeed one of the best techniques for making progress. For our French school, it is important to immerse ourselves in
these literary richnes, guided by the writers who have shaped this language.
Let us not forget that the French Riviera has been visited or celebrated by
great names in literature (Maupassant, Apollinaire, Scott Fitzgerald, Jules
Verne, ...). Without further ado, let's explore together the five sentences
that still resonate through the centuries and pay tribute to French writers.
"One
sees clearly only with the heart. The essential is invisible to the eyes."
Antoine de SAINT-EXUPÉRY, The Little Prince
The Little
Prince is a timeless book whose reading will be profitable for both children
and adults. In this masterpiece of literature, which is among the most read
French works in the world, Saint-Exupéry, born in Lyon on June 29, 1900,
invites us to look at the world with the eyes of the soul. Chapter XXI brings
together the young hero and a fox who proposes to give the meaning of the
expression "to be tamed." This quote, spoken by the animal, is among
the famous French sentences. It reveals the profound truth that the true
treasures of life can only be perceived with our sensitivity. When we meet
someone, it is important not to rely on physical appearance. Through
friendship, we can enter another universe that will strip away the social mask.
In short, this sentence is a lesson on the necessity of cultivating our
feelings.
"I
think, therefore I am." René DESCARTES, Discourse on the Method
"Cogito,
ergo sum." This philosophical conclusion by Descartes embodies the spirit
of rationalism among French authors. Pronounced in French in the
"Discourse on the Method" published in 1637, this phrase symbolizes
the philosophy classes that French baccalaureate students are familiar with.
Dear René, you make everyone agree in four words! Before even asking questions,
one must first ensure that one exists! Thus, the certainty of the existence of
consciousness allows this great philosopher to rebuild knowledge on solid
foundations. The method is precisely one of the notions that your teachers will
address in long-term courses for DELF preparation.
"Man
is born free, and everywhere he is in chains." Jean-Jacques
ROUSSEAU, The Social Contract
Rousseau
undoubtedly belongs to the most renowned French writers. In 1762, Rousseau
makes this observation about the human condition in the preamble of his
fundamental work, The Social Contract. Freedom and equality are fundamental
values undermined in reality. Today, many authoritarian regimes still prevent
citizens from freely expressing their opinions. The ideal is a freedom built by
common will, where each individual enjoys inalienable rights while respecting
others. The social contract is a form of association in which everyone joins
together while retaining their individual freedom. The entire French society is
summarized in this principle! With the International Center of Antibes, you can
combine French courses, culture, and activities to make the most of your stay!
"Let's
leave pretty women to men without imagination." Marcel PROUST, In Search
of Lost Time
This
sentence is one of the most iconic French literary quotes. In Search of Lost
Time consists of no less than seven volumes, the publication of which began in
1913. This quote suggests that only men without imagination content themselves
with a woman's physical beauty while others seek moral or intellectual
qualities. As soon as we possess an object, it quickly loses all interest.
Similarly, if the ideal being becomes accessible, we no longer desire it and
our existence loses all its flavor. Certainly, our imagination can play tricks
on our intellect, but what would art and creation be without this faculty? In a
society where the cult of beauty exercises hegemony, this reflection by Proust
provides us with satisfaction. Immerse yourself in French literature! Do you
want to improve your level for this? With the intensive plus course, you will
progress through an intensive program that combines general French in the
morning, individual lessons, and an intensive course in the afternoon.
"To
leave is to die a little, but to die is to leave a lot." Alphonse ALLAIS.
A beautiful dream.
This
author, a specialist in puns and world games, was born in Normandy in 1854. His
life can be studied in French courses for teenagers: this writer was a
rebellious teenager! Indeed, young Alphonse did not intend to pursue the career
of a pharmacist desired by his father and preferred café terraces! This parodic
sentence will introduce you to comedic authors. Understanding the humor
specific to the inhabitants of a country is not easy? No problem: learning French through literature will help you become more familiar with the French
language and its subtleties. To learn French, learning French in Provence is a choice you will not regret! It is a region rich in history and culture that you
will discover during your language stay in Antibes. In the French literary
tradition, these famous sentences invite us to reflect, to feel, and to explore
the depths of the human mind. Courses for juniors or for adults will prove to
you that literature is accessible at any age.
Language stay at the Centre International d'Antibes
