Book Review: When the World Spoke French

The book, When the World Spoke French, written by Marc Fumaroli and translated from French to English by Richard Howard, is well written and engaging. Each chapter of the book covers a different eighteenth century Enlightenment writer. These brief biographies encompass a wide number of individuals,such as,Francesco Algarottias well as perhaps lesser know lights including Lugi Riccoboni.  Along with the biography is a sample of writing.  These writings are quite often personal letters, and portions of essays.  Many of the writers were not in fact French, but wrote in French and where highly influenced what was happening in France.  

Anyone who is interested in eighteenth century history should read Fumaroli's book.  I appreciated finding out more about what was taking place in the rest of the world while America was stirring towards Revolution.  It really put things into perspective.  Fumaroli's writing style makes the people in the book come alive.  The adding together of all these individuals and their writing make for a sweep through European history that is far more interesting than the typical history book.