What Is a Nation? and Other Political Writings

Ernest Renan was a French intellectual who was a prominent voice of French liberalism and secularism. This collection of his political writings, previously untranslated, restores him to his place as a major liberal thinker and provides critical context to his views on nationalism, colonial expansion, Islam, Judaism, and race.

Format: Hardback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 28 August 2018
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Ernest Renan, a prominent figure in the Parisian intellectual scene during the second half of the nineteenth century, was a multifaceted individual known for his expertise in philology, history, and biblical studies. He emerged as a vocal advocate of French liberalism and secularism, leaving a lasting impact on the world of ideas. Renan's most renowned lecture, "What Is a Nation?" delivered in 1882, gained international recognition for defining a nation as an "everyday plebiscite." However, his influence extended far beyond this lecture, as he played a significant role in shaping debates surrounding significant historical events such as the Franco-Prussian War, the Paris Commune, and the establishment of the Third Republic. Renan's ideas resonated with thinkers across the political spectrum, influencing their understanding of authority and social organization in the rapidly changing world driven by the forces of modernization.

What Is a Nation? and Other Political Writings, the first English-language anthology of Renan's political thought, aims to reclaim his place as a significant liberal thinker in France. This comprehensive collection presents a wide range of Renan's writings, many of which have been previously untranslated, providing valuable insights into his intellectual journey. The anthology sheds light on the distinctive features of nineteenth-century French liberalism, distinguishing it from its English and American counterparts. It also delves into the more controversial aspects of Renan's legacy, including his analysis of colonial expansion, his views on Islam and Judaism, and the role of race in his thought.

The volume includes a critical introduction to Renan's life and work, providing a foundation for understanding his intellectual development. Detailed annotations accompany each essay, assisting readers in navigating the complexities of Renan's thought and appreciating the richness of his ideas. By presenting a comprehensive selection of Renan's political writings, this anthology restores him to his rightful place as a key figure in the history of French liberalism and secularism. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the profound impact of his ideas on the modern world.

Weight: 664g
Dimension: 165 x 237 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231174305