Politics and ‘Politiques' in Sixteenth-Century France: A Conceptual History

The French Wars of Religion saw a passionate debate about the nature and identity of politics, with the term "politique" becoming significant and dangerous. Emma Claussen investigates questions of language and power during this time, demonstrating how politics can be understood in relation to the wider linguistic and conceptual struggles of the age and influenced them.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 302 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The French Wars of Religion were a time of intense debate and controversy regarding the nature and identity of politics. The term "politique" in both sixteenth-century and contemporary French referred to the theory and practice of politics, as well as the statesman or politician who engaged in this art. In early modern France, the term gained significant importance and even carried a sense of danger. It was heavily mobilized in dialogues, treatises, debates, and polemics during the French Wars of Religion, playing a crucial role in shaping the political experiences of the time.

Emma Claussen's book explores the questions of language and power during a tumultuous century when politics emerged as a discipline in its own right. It examines how politics could be understood in relation to the broader linguistic and conceptual struggles of the age and how it could influence them. Claussen places the term "politique" in the context of early modern political, doctrinal, and intellectual debates, demonstrating how it interconnected with other key concepts and ideas of the time.

One of the central themes of the book is the role of language in shaping political discourse and power dynamics. Claussen argues that the language used in political debates and discussions had the power to shape public opinion and influence political outcomes. She explores how different linguistic strategies were employed by different political actors to promote their agendas and undermine their opponents.

Another important aspect of the book is the relationship between politics and religion. Claussen argues that the French Wars of Religion were not simply religious conflicts but also political battles. She explores how religious beliefs and ideologies were used by political actors to justify their actions and mobilize support for their causes. She also examines how religious differences and tensions contributed to the instability and fragmentation of early modern France.

The book also explores the broader intellectual and cultural context in which politics emerged in early modern France. Claussen discusses the influence of classical philosophy, such as Plato and Aristotle, on political thought and the development of political institutions. She also examines the role of print culture, such as newspapers and pamphlets, in shaping public opinion and political debate.

Overall, Emma Claussen's book provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the nature and identity of politics during the French Wars of Religion. It offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of this important period in French history and its broader implications for the study of politics and language.

Weight: 444g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108928335