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Introduction to the Country of France

France

France is one of Europe’s largest countries. It is bordered by six countries other nations: Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg to the northeast, Switzerland and Italy to the southeast and Spain to the southwest. The United Kingdom borders France via the English Channel. The country is considered to be the gateway to Europe as there are several large international airports (two of these can be found in Paris), ferry terminals and the French rail service.

France is the most popular tourist destination in the world. There are many reasons why so many people enjoy visiting the diverse country, including the natural beauty, the amazing climate, outdoor recreational activities such as golf courses, art museums and galleries and so much more. There are many different activities that outline the history of the country which are enjoyable to visitors, especially considering its turbulent past.

Along with these things, France is enjoyed and well-known for its cuisine and wines. It is easy to say that French people love to cook and love their food. Meals in France are joyous, long events with families drawn close together for conversation. The typical French meal offers three to four courses which includes cheese before dessert. All meals are accompanied by freshly baked breads and wine. Popular foods in France include chicken in a red wine sauce, known as Coq au vin and sea scallops cooked in butter, or Coquilles Saint-Jacques. The food that is actually on the menu can also be quite diverse and vary according to the region of the country in which you are located.

People in France are courteous and very formal. People in the country are also known for being chic, taking great pride in their personal appearance and clothing. Some countries view France as an arrogant country because of these characteristics, although those in the country attribute this to simply being fashionable and cautious of the appearance.

There are 22 official regions located in the country of France. Each of these regions are subdivided into departments.

Brittany and Normandy lie on the far northwest corner of France. This region is distinct, with a jagged coastline of wide bays and granite cliffs. Those who reside in this region consider themselves separated from the rest of France. The dialect is Breton, and you will find Lower Normandy and Upper Normandy also within this region. The countryside in this region is simply amazing, and those visiting will find mile after mile of unspoilt countryside. Rain is common in this region, with cooler weather in the winter months and a variable climate throughout the year.

To the southern border of Brittany and Lower Normandy you will find Pays-de la Loire. This region is spectacular and lush with amazing scenery, including the dramatic Atlantic coast where delightful beaches and waters can be found. The climate in this region offers the best of temperatures, with warm summers and mild winters.

The southern region of France is a popular area. It is extremely busy and one of the most expensive regions in the country. It is also hot. Despite these things visitors come from far and wide to enjoy the scenery that is offered in the region. Lavender fields are popular throughout the southern region.

The Rhone-Alpes, sits to the north of the Mediterranean coast. It is home to the French Alps which everyone knows is a popular area for tourists as well as locals. The area is filled with dazzling resorts available throughout the year and those in the region can take advantage of any number of activities with skiing ranking as a particular favourite. Mountains are plentiful in the region, just as they are in The Pyrenees in the southwest.

The centre of France is truly where the heart lies. It is a peaceful, quite region. Auvergne is located in the heart of France, and still remains one of the least densely populated areas of the country. There are no coasts or national borders found in the areas in the heart of France. Limousin, Burgundy, the Central Loire Valley all are located here. Many lakes exist throughout these areas, making it a prime area for those who enjoy fishing. Those who like to sip a great glass of wine can also come to this region. Burgundy is a paradise for those who love wine as well as delectable food.

In the eastern region of France you will find the areas that border Germany, Switzerland, Belgium and Luxembourg. The Franche-Comte is here, characterized by an amazing landscape of woods and rivers. Those who enjoy the great outdoors are certain to enjoy this region. There is a strong German influence in this region, which is prominent in the dialect, the cuisine and the architecture. It is a region that is peaceful and filled with beautiful small towns, rolling vineyards and more. Ardennes is in the region, and a hilly area with forests and waters to the south. It is here that champagne is created. In this region the temperatures are generally cooler in the winter. The locals are affluent, as this is the main gateway into Europe.

Northern France is home to Nord-Pas-de-Calais, Dunkerque and Boulogne. The close proximity to Belgium has a heavy influence on the region. Here you will find windmills and canals covering large expanses of land. The local cuisine is an attractive part of the region, just as the world-renowned beer festivals that take place. The region is also rich in history. The First World War battlefields can be found in the area, which reveal a look at the horrors of times past. Picardy is also located in this part of France. The climate within this region resembles that of the UK and Paris.

And then there is Paris. You cannot talk about France without first talking about Paris, the capital of the country. Paris has it all, and it is one of the most majestic capital cities in the entire world. The Eiffel Tower is located in Paris, as well as The Louvre. Paris exemplifies wealth and design, therefore the region is very expensive. There are endless cultural attractions found in Paris.

As you can see there is something to love throughout the country of France. It is truly the place to be no matter who you are. Men and women, teens and children of all ages enjoy coming to France and experiencing things that can be found nowhere else in the world. Whether you are looking for mountains, lakes, history, sandy beaches or something else, France certainly has something to offer to everyone.

A few other bits of information about France that you might enjoy:

  • 85% of all residents of the country are Roman Catholic
  • More than 60 million people reside in the country
  • French and English are the two most commonly spoken languages in the country
  • France uses EUROs. You will need to exchange any money that you choose to bring with you from another country into EUROs before or after you arrive in the country.

While France was once a largely agricultural state, things have changed since World War II and now there are many different industries that France is competent in. Around 35% of all of the land in France is occupied by orchards and vineyards. France leads the way in wine production as well. Forestry and fishing also rank highly as notable industries in the country, although this varies according to the location of France that you are in.  Other notable interests in the country include iron and coal, as well as transportation of equipment and machinery. As you may imagine, tourism accounts for a very large proportion of the economy in France.

France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, bringing tens-of-millions of visitors each and every year. While most people come to experience the fabulousness of Paris, there are many other cities in the country that also offer a delight to those who visit. Arriving in Paris provides the chance to experience so very much. It is said that Paris is the city of love, and you can expect romance and love to always be in the air when you are in Paris. France is the most visited country in the world each year and those who choose to visit the country will certainly leave and head back home with a fond appreciation of the nation.

Another important fact about France is that it is high on the list of best places in the world to attend university. Individuals of all ages can attend any of the fabulous colleges and universities in the country and expect to earn a great education. France is home to some of the best universities in the world, and the country leads the way in a number of industries. When it is a wonderful education that is desired, it is France that more people look to. There are so many reasons why people choose France, with the outstanding educational opportunities being the biggest. But, a cheaper cost of living, the area and other factors also influence the decision of people to attend a university in France.

France is rich in history and culture. You can find people from all backgrounds and heritages in the country. The food in France is another benefit of being in the country. People in France are exquisite in every aspect of their life. This includes in the dishes that they prepare. When you taste authentic French cuisine you can experience something that will set your taste buds alight and help you discover flavours that you never knew existed. Paris is well-known for their upscale restaurants serving some of the finest food you will ever taste.

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A statue of Notre Dame de France overlooking Le Puy-en-Velay in the Massif Central.

I’ve written about France for 20 years – here are my favourite places to visit

After a lifetime exploring the country’s cities, coast and countryside, our France expert chooses her personal highlights My favourite places to eat in France

When you can gaze on the salt pans of Guérande, near Nantes, cycle through lavender fields in Drôme, in the south-east, and bask in the splendour of the Cirque de Gavarnie in the Pyrénees, you have to wonder how France got so lucky with its diverse landscapes. Most recently, the volcanic landscape of the Massif Central captured my heart. The chain of extinct volcanoes runs south from the highest, Le Puy de Dôme (there’s a rack railway to the top) near Clermont-Ferrand.

South of the rugged peaks in Cantal, the town of Chaudes-Aigues has two hot springs – Europe’s hottest at 65C and 82C – that spurt from spouts in the town square. Two hours east, the extraordinary town of Le Puy-en-Velay is the starting point for the medieval pilgrimage trail to Santiago de Compostela . Its Saint-Michel d’Aiguilhe chapel sits atop a basalt needle, while its other peaks are topped by the cathedral and a Notre Dame de France statue.

Port Rolland cove on Brittany’s Côte de Granit Rose.

It isn’t just the landscapes that vary so much across the country – France’s coast has so many characteristics there is a name for every stretch. On the Côte d’Opale , on the north coast, I’ve sat and admired the belle époque villas; further west, on Brittany’s Côte de Granit Rose , I have swum in coves surrounded by pink-hued boulders carved into extraordinary shapes by wind and sea. In the south-west, I’ve basked in the sunshine and dug my toes into silky blond sand as the Atlantic rolled into shore at Capbreton on the Côte d’Argent; and I’ll never forget an impromptu paddle from a tiny beach hidden between oyster farmers’ huts at L’Herbe on Cap Ferret , on the other side of Arcachon Bay.

The dramatic seascape at Pointe de Pern on Ushant island.

France’s coast is dotted with islands, all with distinct identities. On the Atlantic coast, I fell in love with the Île d’Yeu , which was reminiscent of Greece, with its whitewashed houses and colourful shutters, while the Île de Porquerolles off the Côte d’Azur saw us cycling past pine-fringed beaches and vineyards.

The one that really sticks in the memory, though, is Brittany’s Ushant (Île d’Ouessant in French), in the Iroise Sea off the far west coast. On a warm summer’s day, we cycled over its moorland, past lighthouses and green-shuttered cottages. When we reached the Pointe de Pern, the most westerly point of metropolitan France, I couldn’t believe the roar as the Atlantic waves crashed against the tumble of brown rocks.

A cyclepath on the Île de Ré.

Those in search of natural highs aren’t short of opportunities in L’Hexagone . Now our children are a bit older, paddling on the beach won’t cut it, so we’ve hired sand yachts and darted across the broad beach at Barbâtre on the Île de Noirmoutier off the coast near Nantes. In many forests across France, we’ve swung and climbed through the trees on acc robranche treetop adventures.

Of course, the activity the French excel at is le cyclisme , and the Île de Ré off the west coast was made for it. We’ve pedalled along smooth cycle paths between whitewashed villages adorned with hollyhocks, our legs powered by salted butter caramels.

Washerwomen, by Degas

Paris is always the first stop in France for art lovers, and little can rival the experience of standing eye-to-eye with Van Gogh’s self-portrait at the Musée d’Orsay , reflecting that, as he made those distinct and colourful brush strokes as a penniless artist, he would never know his impact on the art world 135 years later.

Beyond Paris, I’ve loved getting immersed in lesser-known galleries, which also offer moments of wonder. Le Havre’s light-filled Musée d’art moderne André Malraux holds one of France’s largest collections of impressionist art, including works by Renoir, Pissarro, Sisley, Degas and Courbet. It’s a must-visit during this year’s Normandy impressionist festival .

Musée Cinema et Miniature in Lyon.

It never ceases to amaze how the French manage to make museums on such wide-ranging subjects, from the surprisingly fascinating Musée de la Fraise (strawberry) in Plougastel, Brittany to the exquisitely intricate models in the Musée Cinema et Miniature in Lyon. There are big-budget ones, such as the recently revamped Musée National de la Marine in Paris’s Trocadéro, which blends historical model ships and paintings with modern innovations such as a giant CGI wave to bring the history of seafaring alive.

But smaller museums can be as engaging. In a beautiful mansion in the north-eastern walled town of Langres, the House of Enlightenment tells the story of the town’s most famous son, Denis Diderot, the philosopher, art critic and writer who wrote most of the 1751 Encyclopédie .

Architecture

Stained glass in St Joseph’s church in Le Havre.

France’s many chateaux and cathedrals get the most attention, but I’ve been enchanted by more modern architecture, too. On my visit to Le Corbusier’s concrete Saint-Pierre church in Firminy, in the Loire Valley, I caught a group of music students practising four-part harmony in the extraordinary acoustics of the sloped walls, while the sunlight was shining through dozens of tiny windows like a constellation of stars.

In Le Havre, towering above the Lego-like apartment blocks, is the similarly impressive St Joseph’s church . Inside, I sat beneath the kaleidoscopic octagonal tower in reverence as I stared up at its 12,000 panes of coloured glass.

The giant elephant puppet roaming an island in the Loire, in Nantes.

I love Lyon for its gastronomy, Marseille for its myriad quartiers and characters, Bordeaux for its splendour and Nice for its light. But lesser-known cities also hold delights. Nantes is a creative powerhouse with its own magic, encapsulated by the Machines de Nantes , including the giant robotic elephant that roams around an island in the Loire, next to a three-storey Jules-Verne-inspired carousel (their creations can be found in Toulouse and Calais now, too). There are street art installations and, along the river towards Saint-Nazaire, a collection of  kooky art installations .

Getting around

A train crosses a viaduct near Marseille.

There’s a joy to making the journey part of the holiday, especially for those who choose not to have the stress of the airport and want to keep their carbon footprint low. I’ve always loved standing on deck as the ferry comes into Saint Malo : the view of its stately walled town is particularly good from the sea.

Driving in France is a joy (certainly compared with the much busier UK): those empty roads lined with plane trees are justly famous. The A49 from Grenoble is an awesome route as it skirts past the Vercors mountains and walnut groves, while the Millau viaduct on the A75 is always a thrill to cross.

And trains are fast, efficient and comfortable; I love the route along the Côte d’Azur from Marseille to Nice – TGV OuiGo trains depart from Marseille’s Saint-Charles station and arrive in Nice Ville in less than three hours, offering glimpses of the shimmering Mediterranean between the terracotta roofs and cypress pines.

Where to stay

Chouette Cabane, near Laval.

Whatever you have in mind for accommodation, France has it. A bedroom in a castle – Château de Saint Paterne is my favourite. A beautiful gîte – Le Mas and Le Mazet in the Dordogne eclipsed all others. A cute chambres d’hôtes , where the owners treat you like long-lost friends – I’ve never been disappointed by Sawday’s places. And the French are in a class of their own when it comes to more unusual places. There are fabulous tree houses – at La Chouette Cabane in the Mayenne our delicious dinner was winched up to the deck on a pulley and accompanied by a frog chorus as night fell.

In lesser-known Lorraine, the rustic cabin with its own sauna next to the Lake de Pierre-Percée felt wildly remote. And then there was the eco-lodge shaped like a cow: in deepest Burgundy, a region rightly proud of its beef and cheese, the Vache Ecolodge sleeps 12 and is decorated on a bovine theme throughout. Quite mad, but brilliant fun.

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France, the largest country in Western Europe, has long been a gateway between the continent's northern and southern regions.

France, the largest country in Western Europe, has long been a gateway between the continent's northern and southern regions. Its lengthy borders touch Germany and Belgium in the north; the Atlantic Ocean in the west; the Pyrenees Mountains and Spain in the south.

Wide fertile plains dominate most of the north and west, making France the agricultural epicenter of Europe. The sprawling, forested plateau of the Massif Central, a range of ancient mountains and extinct volcanoes, occupies France's southern interior.

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PEOPLE & CULTURE

France is one of the oldest nations on Earth and the most ethnically diverse country in Europe. These deep and broad influences have made France a world leader throughout history in nearly all aspects of culture, including cuisine, wine-making, politics, philosophy, music, art, film, fashion, literature, and sports.

France has ample land area to provide habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals. More than 25 percent of its territory is covered with forest, and another 50 percent is countryside or farmland.

Lowland forests are home to deer and wild boar, while the woodlands of the Alps and Pyrenees provide refuge for rare chamois antelope, ibex, brown bears , and alpine hares, among many other species. The Mediterranean coastline is a stopover of millions of migrating African birds , including flamingos , vultures , egrets, and bee-eaters.

The French government has made a broad commitment to preserving open spaces and the wildlife they contain. About 10 percent of the country has been set aside as national or regional parklands and nature reserves.

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French Culture, Values, and Language Essay

Introduction.

France has many distinct ethnicities, and their traditions are essential for the nation. Celtic and Gallo-Roman civilizations, Francs, and Germanic tribes influenced its culture in past centuries. Nevertheless, the word “nationalism” was created by French thinkers during the Enlightenment era, instilling a passion for it in the citizens. This work aims to study a particular aspect of the culture of France, in this case, the area of cultural values.

To be French means to have French citizenship and to demonstrate the values central to French culture. Many people believe that the French are truly united people based on their attention to equality and brotherhood. Currently, individuals are reconsidering what it signifies to be French, particularly in light of the European Union’s expansion and the flood of immigrants. Nevertheless, there is a widespread belief that France should be the homeland of French citizens. As a result, the government restricts state entities from gathering background information on individuals to prevent religious and ethnic inequalities.

Nevertheless, the uniformity of modern France has become a sensitive issue. Despite an absence of evidence, it is often assumed that the French world has become more varied in the past few decades. For instance, it currently represents one of the largest Muslim societies in West Europe. In France, Muslim populations have made contributions to gastronomy, literature, and the arts. Others feel that immigrants should adapt to the predominant French culture, while some have welcomed the role of different civilizations. Nonetheless, individuals of French culture, especially immigrants, are constantly redefining what it means to be French.

Individualism is prevalent in French society, which means that the needs of oneself and one’s close family take precedence. Usually, suitable engagement is determined by whether or not an individual is in one’s circle of acquaintances. In France, there are numerous subtle social customs that reflect this tendency. From outsiders’ perspective, the French are polite and respectful and present themselves as good friends. In France, it is vital to adhere to societal expectations and maintain suitable formality. A ‘wrong step’ is an awkward or naive deed or comment in a social environment. An instance of a misstep would be addressing a friend by their first name. The French people’s formality and restrained attitude, along with the straightforwardness of the French language, might mistakenly come off as chilly or haughty to a stranger (Lodge et al., 2016). Nevertheless, correct etiquette often relaxes and relaxes in the presence of excellent friends and relatives. After being familiar, a French individual is inclined to demonstrate openness and kindness.

The French have a sense of national pride in their language since it is frequently associated with French nationality. People who seek to become residents of the nation and be acknowledged as members of the French people must be fluent in French. In the wake of globalization and the importation of American culture, the French language is also viewed as a crucial aspect in sustaining a distinct French personality (Sago, 2019). Furthermore, the expansion of the English language produced regret and dissatisfaction among the French as it signaled the demise of France’s global dominance.

To summarize, the values typical for France as a country and collectively shared by its citizens, regardless of their backgrounds, are somehow related to the unity of people and the unacceptability of discrimination. Despite the challenges caused by the mixture of cultures people bring from their homelands and the resulting confusion, these provisions are essential for addressing societal concerns. They are underpinned by a proper balance between individualism and communities in which the former is emphasized, whereas the latter matters for regulating people’s behavior which appears too formal. These characteristics are complemented by the language, which is at the center of the described system of French values, and external threats to this aspect are perceived as more critical than in any other area.

Lodge, R., Shelton, J., Ellis, Y., & Armstrong, N. (2016). Exploring the French language . Routledge.

Sago, K. (2019). Revisioning French Culture . Oxford University Press.

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France - List of Essay Samples And Topic Ideas

France is a country in Western Europe with a rich history, culture, and global influence. Essays could explore French history, art, cuisine, or political evolution. Discussions might also touch on France’s role in international affairs, its colonial past, and contemporary challenges and achievements. We have collected a large number of free essay examples about France you can find at Papersowl. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

The French Revolution: Great Changes in France

The French Revolution brought about great changes in the society and government of France. The revolution, which lasted from 1789 to 1799, also had far-reaching effects on the rest of Europe. The revolution toppled the government, set up a republic, accelerated political strife under Napoleon who conveyed many of his standards to territories he defeated in Western Europe. Inspired by liberal and radical thoughts, the Revolution significantly changed the course of current history, setting off the worldwide decrease of total […]

The French Revolution: Social and Political Crisis in France

The French Revolution was a watershed period of social and political crisis in France and its colonies that began in 1789 and lasted until the late 1790s. This period consisted of the French citizens that were razed and wanted to redesign their country’s political landscape by uprooting absolute monarchy and the feudal system. The French Revolution played a critical role in overthrowing their own monarchy, establishing a republic, and shaping modern nations by showing the rest of the world the […]

Compare the Four Major Europeans Nations

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How the Age of Enlightenment Changed France and the United States

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How the American Revolution had Influenced on France

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Womens Rights in the French Revolution

Prior to the French revolution, events such as the Enlightenment also known as the “Age of Reason” sparked a new outlook on traditional french society. From this movement arose the spirit of question in which the people began to question just about everything including the manner in which they treat women. Throughout the 18th century concepts and principles established by both Catholic Church and Protestant authorities were highly valued. Therefore the “ideal” woman was perceived to be poise and subordinate […]

France and Joan of Arc

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Social and Political Upheaval in France during French Revolution

During 1789 The French Revolution was a period of a far-reaching social and political upheaval in France and its colonies. The French Revolution started May 5, 1789 and ended around November 9, 1799. There was many causes that cause the French Revolution to break apart and rebuild.The upheaval was caused by the widespread with the French monarchy and the poor economic policies. One of the causes that made the revolution the way it is now was the land that was […]

The American and the French Revolutions

The right of revolution was an idea proposed by Enlightenment Philosopher John Locke, which inspired and challenged the colonies in America and the people of France to revolt. Displeased with their current positions with their governments, they mustered up the courage and strength to challenge authority. Through their battles and hardships, both revolutions sought a government that mirrored the Enlightenment beliefs of natural rights, power of the people, and equality. With those goals in mind, they demonstrated the idea that […]

The Middle Class and Aristocrats into France

As the period of Enlightenment ushered into France, the middle class and aristocrats created an uproar within the high social order in France. Their fight for more power and the hardships of the peasants were just the tip of the iceberg. Between the wars and the maintenance of France’s military, the issues of taxes created chaos within Frances Empire. France’s financial woes ushered in what is now known as the French Revolution. However, by 1791, the French Revolution took a […]

France: New Gender Equality Obligations Established

Article Summary In this article, Marion Le Roux and Ji Eun Kaela Kim clarify a set of new obligations that are enforced on employers that aim to promote professional equality between men and women in the workplace. Le Roux and Kim (2019) raise the argument that there are about one-fourth of pay gaps between men and women employees, and they also add that numerous female employees also undergo further kinds of disparate treatment at the workplace (Le Roux and Kim, […]

Enlightenment and the French Revolution

The main ideas of Enlightenment thinking led to the French Revolution in many ways. The Enlightenment was a movement that took place in Europe in the 1800s. There were many different views and concepts that were introduced during the period. France was made of three estates or social classes, which were the Clergy, the nobility, and then the commoners or bourgeoisie. There were constant struggles between members of each class. French people like the bourgeoisie loved the ideas of the […]

A Structural Description of Chartres Cathedral in France

At the bottom of the western façade of Chartres Cathedral, there is a triple portal entrance. Above each portal is a tympanum, and above each tympanum is a large lancet window. The triple portal has a tower on the North and South sides, each with 3 pairs of lancet windows, and in the middle of the pairs is a buttress. Above the triple lancet window in the middle of the façade is the rose window, which is lined with tracery. […]

Was the French Revolution Successful

King Louis XVI once said “The interests of the state must come first.” But it's funny because that's actually the complete opposite of how he did things while he was king. I think the French Revolution was very successful because multiple things got accomplished from it. For example, the social classes went away and everybody was equal, the taxes went down, and France got a new and better ruler that benefited the people a lot more. But how did they […]

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Causes of the French Revolution

The French Revolution was a huge event in European history, one that shaped the way the French government worked forever. However, there was not just one cause that led to this war. There were many causes in the 1780s that led to the French Revolution, the most important being political unrest, failure to reform, and economic crisis. The first major cause of the French Revolution was political unrest throughout the country. The people of the Third Estate wanted the government […]

Achievements of Napoleon Bonaparte

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The time of the revolutions brought great changes to their focus. The French Revolution, which took place in late 18th century France, was aimed at overthrowing the King or Absolute Monarch who had control over France. The people of France took action upon themselves to dethrone the King and execute him for the crimes he had committed, leading to a war being waged with other countries. These actions led to the Reign of Terror, a bloody and gruesome phase for […]

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The start of The French Revolution began due to the disconnect between the people of France and the monarchy, resulting in one of the bloodiest revolts in history. Economic, social and political conditions in France added to the discontent that was felt by many French citizens particularly those from the third estate. One of the main factors that lead to the contribution of the revolution was the crisis in the monarchy. The thoughts of the scholarly people of the Enlightenment […]

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How to Write an Essay in French Without Giving Yourself Away as a Foreigner

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When it comes to expressing your thoughts in French , there’s nothing better than the essay.

It is, after all, the favorite form of such famed French thinkers as Montaigne, Chateaubriand, Houellebecq and Simone de Beauvoir.

In this post, I’ve outlined the four most common types of essays in French, ranked from easiest to most difficult, to help you get to know this concept better. 

Why Are French Essays Different?

Must-have french phrases for writing essays, 4 types of french essays and how to write them, 1. text summary (synthèse de texte).

  • 2. Text Commentary (Commentaire de texte)

3. Dialectic Dissertation (Thèse, Antithèse, Synthèse)

  • 4. Progressive Dissertation (Plan progressif)

And one more thing...

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

Writing an essay in French is not the same as those typical 5-paragraph essays you’ve probably written in English.

In fact, there’s a whole other logic that has to be used to ensure that your essay meets French format standards and structure. It’s not merely writing your ideas in another language .

And that’s because the French use Cartesian logic (also known as Cartesian doubt) , developed by René Descartes , which requires a writer to begin with what is known and then lead the reader through to the logical conclusion: a paragraph that contains the thesis. Through the essay, the writer will reject all that is not certain or all that is subjective in his or her quest to find the objective truth.

Sound intriguing? Read on for more!

Before we get to the four main types of essays, here are a few French phrases that will be especially helpful as you delve into essay-writing in French:

Introductory phrases , which help you present new ideas.

Connecting phrases , which help you connect ideas and sections.

Contrasting phrases , which help you juxtapose two ideas.

Concluding phrases , which help you to introduce your conclusion.

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The text summary or synthèse de texte  is one of the easiest French writing exercises to get a handle on. It essentially involves reading a text and then summarizing it in an established number of words, while repeating no phrases that are in the original text. No analysis is called for.

A  synthèse de texte  should follow the same format as the text that is being synthesized. The arguments should be presented in the same way, and no major element of the original text should be left out of the  synthèse.

Here is an informative post about writing a synthèse de texte , written for French speakers. 

The text summary is a great exercise for exploring the following French language elements:

  • Synonyms , as you will need to find other words to describe what is said in the original text.
  • Nominalization , which involves turning verbs into nouns and generally cuts down on word count.
  • Vocabulary , as the knowledge of more exact terms will allow you to avoid periphrases and cut down on word count.

While beginners may wish to work with only one text, advanced learners can synthesize as many as three texts in one text summary. 

Since a text summary is simple in its essence, it’s a great writing exercise that can accompany you through your entire learning process.

2. Text Commentary  (Commentaire de texte)

A text commentary or commentaire de texte   is the first writing exercise where the student is asked to present an analysis of the materials at hand, not just a summary.

That said, a  commentaire  de texte  is not a reaction piece. It involves a very delicate balance of summary and opinion, the latter of which must be presented as impersonally as possible. This can be done either by using the third person (on) or the general first person plural (nous) . The singular first person (je) should never be used in a  commentaire de texte.

A commentaire de texte  should be written in three parts:

  • An introduction , where the text is presented.
  • An argument , where the text is analyzed.
  • A conclusion , where the analysis is summarized and elevated.

Here is a handy in-depth guide to writing a successful commentaire de texte,  written for French speakers.

Unlike with the synthesis, you will not be able to address all elements of a text in a commentary. You should not summarize the text in a commentary, at least not for the sake of summarizing. Every element of the text that you speak about in your commentary must be analyzed.

To successfully analyze a text, you will need to brush up on your figurative language. Here are some great resources to get you started:

  • Here’s an introduction to figurative language in French.
  • This guide to figurative language  presents the different elements in useful categories.
  • This guide , intended for high school students preparing for the BAC—the exam all French high school students take, which they’re required to pass to go to university—is great for seeing examples of how to integrate figurative language into your commentaries.
  • Speaking of which, here’s an example of a corrected commentary from the BAC, which will help you not only include figurative language but get a head start on writing your own commentaries.

The French answer to the 5-paragraph essay is known as the  dissertation .  Like the American 5-paragraph essay, it has an introduction, body paragraphs and a conclusion. The stream of logic, however, is distinct.

There are actually two kinds of  dissertation,  each of which has its own rules.

The first form of  dissertation  is the dialectic dissertation , better known as  thèse, antithèse, synthèse . In this form, there are actually only two body paragraphs. After the introduction, a thesis is posited. Following the thesis, its opposite, the antithesis, is explored (and hopefully, debunked). The final paragraph, what we know as the conclusion, is the  synthesis , which addresses the strengths of the thesis, the strengths and weaknesses of the antithesis, and concludes with the reasons why the original thesis is correct.

For example, imagine that the question was, “Are computers useful to the development of the human brain?” You could begin with a section showing the ways in which computers are useful for the progression of our common intelligence—doing long calculations, creating in-depth models, etc.

Then you would delve into the problems that computers pose to human intelligence, citing examples of the ways in which spelling proficiency has decreased since the invention of spell check, for example. Finally, you would synthesize this information and conclude that the “pro” outweighs the “con.”

The key to success with this format is developing an outline before writing. The thesis must be established, with examples, and the antithesis must be supported as well. When all of the information has been organized in the outline, the writing can begin, supported by the tools you have learned from your mastery of the synthesis and commentary.

Here are a few tools to help you get writing:

  • Here’s a great guide to writing a dialectic dissertation .
  • Here’s an example of a plan for a dialectic dissertation , showing you the three parts of the essay as well as things to consider when writing a dialectic dissertation.

4. Progressive Dissertation ( Plan progressif)

The progressive dissertation is slightly less common, but no less useful, than the first form.

The progressive form basically consists of examining an idea via multiple points of view—a sort of deepening of the understanding of the notion, starting with a superficial perspective and ending with a deep and profound analysis.

If the dialectic dissertation is like a scale, weighing pros and cons of an idea, the progressive dissertation is like peeling an onion, uncovering more and more layers as you get to the deeper crux of the idea.

Concretely, this means that you will generally follow this layout:

  • A first, elementary exploration of the idea.
  • A second, more philosophical exploration of the idea.
  • A third, more transcendent exploration of the idea.

This format for the dissertation is more commonly used for essays that are written in response to a philosophical question, for example, “What is a person?” or “What is justice?”

Let’s say the question was, “What is war?” In the first part, you would explore dictionary definitions—a basic idea of war, i.e. an armed conflict between two parties, usually nations. You could give examples that back up this definition, and you could narrow down the definition of the subject as much as needed. For example, you might want to make mention that not all conflicts are wars, or you might want to explore whether the “War on Terror” is a war.

In the second part, you would explore a more philosophical look at the topic, using a definition that you provide. You first explain how you plan to analyze the subject, and then you do so. In French, this is known as  poser une problématique  (establishing a thesis question), and it usually is done by first writing out a question and then exploring it using examples: “Is war a reflection of the base predilection of humans for violence?”

In the third part, you will take a step back and explore this question from a distance, taking the time to construct a natural conclusion and answer for the question.

This form may not be as useful in as many cases as the first type of essay, but it’s a good form to learn, particularly for those interested in philosophy. Here’s an in-depth guide  to writing a progressive dissertation.

As you progress in French and become more and more comfortable with writing, try your hand at each of these types of writing exercises, and even with other forms of the dissertation . You’ll soon be a pro at everything from a synthèse de texte to a dissertation!

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essay about my country france

How to Write an Excellent French Essay (Resources Included)

Tips to write an excellent french essay.

Writing essays is challenging enough, but when you are asked to write a French essay, you are not only being asked to write in a foreign language, but to follow the conventions of another linguistic and literary tradition. Like essay-writing in any language, the essential part of writing a French essay is to convey your thoughts and observations on a certain topic in a clear and concise manner. French essays do come out of a certain tradition that is part of the training of all students who attend school in France – or at least secondary school – and when you are a French essay, it is important to be aware of this tradition.

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The French philosopher Michel de Montaigne is credited with popularizing the essay form as a literary genre. His work, Essais, first published in 1580, and undergoing several subsequent publications before his death in 1592, covers a wide breadth of topics, ranging from “amitié” to “philosopher c’est apprendre à mourir”, and includes many literary references, as well as personal anecdotes. The name for this genre, essai, is the nominal form of the verb essayer, “to attempt”. We have an archaic English verb essay, meaning the same thing. The limerick that includes the phrase, “... when she essayed to drink lemonade ...” indicates an attempt to drink a beverage and has nothing to do with writing about it. But the writing form does illustrate an attempt to describe a topic in depth with the purpose of developing new insights on a particular text or corpus.

French instructors are very specific about what they would like when they ask for an essay, meaning that they will probably specify whether they would like an explication de texte, commentaire composé, or dissertation. That last essay form should not be confused with the document completed for a doctorate in anglophone countries – this is called a thèse in French, by the way. There are different formats for each of these types of essay, and different objectives for each written form.

Types of Essay

1. l’explication de texte.

An explication de texte is a type of essay for which you complete a close reading. It is usually written about a poem or a short passage within a larger work. This close reading will elucidate different themes and stylistic devices within the text. When you are completing an explication de texte, make sure to follow the structure of the text as you complete a close examination of its form and content. The format for an explication de texte consists of:

i. An introduction, in which you situate the text within its genre and historical context. This is where you can point out to your readers the general themes of the text, its form, the trajectory of your reading, and your approach to the text.

ii. The body, in which you develop your ideas, following the structure of the text. Make sure you know all of the meanings of the words used, especially the key terms that point to the themes addressed by the author. It is a good idea to look words up in the dictionary to find out any second, third, and fourth meanings that could add to the themes and forms you describe. Like a student taking an oral examination based on this type of essay writing, you will be expected to have solid knowledge of the vocabulary and grammatical structures that appear in the text. Often the significance of the language used unfolds as you explain the different components of theme, style, and composition.

iii. A conclusion, in which you sum up the general meaning of the text and the significance of the figures and forms being used. You should also give the implications of what is being addressed, and the relevance of these within a larger literary, historical, or philosophical context.

NB: If you are writing about a poem, include observations on the verse, rhyme schemes, and meter. It is a good idea to refer to a reference work on versification. If you are writing about a philosophical work, be familiar with philosophical references and definitions of concepts.

Caveat: Refrain from paraphrasing. Instead show through careful analysis of theme, style, and composition the way in which the main ideas of the text are conveyed.

2. Le commentaire composé

A commentaire composé is a methodologically codified commentary that focuses on themes in a particular text. This type of essay develops different areas of reflection through analytical argument. Such argumentation should clarify the reading that you are approaching by presenting components of the text from different perspectives. In contrast to the explication de texte, it is organized thematically rather than following the structure of the text to which it refers. The format for a commentaire composé consists of:

i. An introduction, in which you present the question you have come up with, often in relation to a prompt commenting on a thematic or stylistic aspect of the text, such as “Montrez en quoi ce texte évoque l’amour courtois” or “Qu’apporte l’absence de la ponctuation dans ce texte ?” In this section, you will be expected to delineate your approach to the text and illustrate the trajectory of your ideas so that your readers will have a clear idea of the direction these ideas will take.

ii. A tripartite body, in which you explore the question you have come up with, citing specific examples in the text that are especially pertinent to the areas of reflection you wish to explore. These citations should be explained and connected to the broad themes of your commentary, all the while providing details that draw the readers’ attention to your areas of inquiry. These different areas of inquiry may initially seem disparate or even contradictory, but eventually come together to form a harmonious reading that addresses different aspects of the text. The more obvious characteristics of the text should illuminate its subtler aspects, which allows for acute insight into the question that you are in the process of exploring.

iii. A conclusion, in which you evaluate your reading and synthesize its different areas of inquiry. This is where you may include your own opinions, but make sure that the preceding sections of your commentaire remain analytical and supported by evidence that you find in the text.

NB: Looking at verb tenses, figures of speech, and other aspects that contribute to the form of the text will help situate your reader, as will commenting on the register of language, whether this language is ornate, plain, reflects a style soutenu, or less formal patterns of speech.

Caveat: Quotations do not replace observations or comments on the text. Explain your quotations and situate them well within your own text.

3. La dissertation

The dissertation is a personal, organized, and methodical reflection on a precise question that refers to a corpus of writing. Referring to this corpus, you may be asked questions along the lines of “Que pensez-vous de l’équivalence entre l’amour et la chanson exprimée dans ces textes ?” or “Est-ce que la sagesse et la folie ont les mêmes sources?” This type of essay allows for an exploration of a question through knowledge of a corpus as well as through an individual’s cultural knowledge. The format for a dissertation consists of:

i. An introduction, in which you present the topic addressed, the significance of your argument, and the trajectory of your ideas.

ii. The body which, like a commentaire composé, consists of a tripartite development of your argument. This can follow any one of the following structures: a dialectical schema, organized into thèse, antithèse, and synthèse – an argument, its counter-argument, and its rebuttal; an analytical schema, consisting of the description of a situation, an analysis of its causes, and commentary on its consequences; a thematic schema, which consists of a reflection on a topic which you proceed to examine from different angles in an orderly fashion.

iii. A conclusion, in which you address the different ways in which you have approached the question at hand and how this deepens your insights, while placing the question within a broader context that shows room for expansion. The conclusion can open up the topic addressed to show its placement within a literary movement, or in opposition to another literary movement that follows it, for example.

NB: Approach the question at hand with as few preconceptions as possible. If you are writing on a quotation, gather all of your knowledge about its author, the work in which it appears, and the body of literature with which it is associated.

Caveat: Even for a personal reflection, such as a dissertation, avoid using the first person pronoun je. Nous or on are preferable. It is advisable not to switch from one to the other, though.

For each of these essay forms, it is a good idea to make an outline to which you can refer as you write. As your writing progresses, things may shift a bit, but having a structure on which you can rely as you gather your various ideas and information into a coherent argument provides solid foundation for a clear and well-developed essay. This also facilitates smooth transitions from one section of your essay to the next.

During your reading, you may encounter a problem, a contradiction, or a surprising turn of phrase that is difficult to figure out. Such moments in a text give you the opportunity to delve into the unique characteristics of the text or corpus to which you are referring, to propose different solutions to the problems you encounter, and to describe their significance within a larger literary, philosophical, and historical context. Essay writing allows you to become more familiar with French works, with their cultural significance, and with the French language. You can refer to the following resources to guide you in this endeavor:

Auffret, Serge et Hélène. Le commentaire composé. Paris: Hachette, 1991. Dufau, Micheline et Ellen D'Alelio. Découverte du poème: Introduction à l'explication de textes. New York: Harcourt, Brace & World, 1967. Grammont, Maurice. Petit traité de versification française. Paris: A. Colin, 2015. Huisman, Denis et L. R. Plazolles. L’art de la dissertation littéraire : du baccalauréat au C.A.P.E.S. Paris : Société d’édition d’enseignement supérieur, 1965.

The French newspaper Le Monde also has good articles on these essay forms that prepare French students for the baccalauréat exam: CLICK HERE

This is also a website with thorough information on essay writing techniques that prepare students for the baccalauréat exam: CLICK HERE

In addition, the University of Adelaide has tips for general essay writing in French: CLICK HERE

🇫🇷 Looking for More French Resources?

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Home — Essay Samples — Geography & Travel — Paris — Paris, the Enchanting French Capital

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Paris, The Enchanting French Capital

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Published: Feb 12, 2024

Words: 500 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Works Cited

  • "Paris." Encyclopædia Britannica
  • "History of Paris." Wikipedia
  • "Paris City Guide." Lonely Planet

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Write an essay in French

Beyond the fact that writing an essay in French can be a good practice to improve your writing, you may also be asked to write one during your schooling. So, it is important to study the topic of French essay writing and get some useful tips..

» Tips and tricks for your French essay » The structure of a French essay » Sample French Essay

Tips and tricks for your French essay

When writing a French essay for school, you should always use a structured approach and good French skills to present your arguments in a focused way. Beyond French skills, there are also important formal requirements for a successful French essay. We will come back to this in detail later. First, you will find some useful tips and tricks that will help you write more compelling and better French essays in the future.

  • Have a clear thesis and structure
  • Do sufficient research and use reliable sources
  • Use examples and arguments to support your thesis
  • Avoid plagiarism and cite correctly
  • Always check structure, grammar and spelling

When you write your essay at school or university, you need to make sure that the general structure of your essay, the presentation of the arguments and, above all, your French language skills play a role in the mark you will get. This is why you should definitely take a closer look at the structure of an essay as well as the most important grammar rules and formulations for French essays.

The structure of a French essay

In an essay, you deal at length and in detail with a usually given topic. When you write an essay in French, you must follow a certain structure. Below we show you what this structure looks like and give you some tips for writing the most important parts of your essay.

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The Introduction

The introduction prepares the main body of your essay. You think of a meaningful title for your essay, you describe your thesis or your question, you give general information on the subject and you prepare your argument by giving an overview of your most important arguments.

Below are examples and phrases that you can use to write the introduction to your essay in French.

The title should be meaningful, concise and reflect the content of the essay.

Introductory paragraph

The first paragraph of your French essay should briefly introduce the topic and engage the reader. Here are some examples to help you write your essay:

Proposal or question

The central proposition or question of your French essay should be a clear and concise definition of the purpose of the essay. Use these examples to get a clearer idea of ​​how to write theses in French:

Overview of Arguments and Structure

At the end of your introduction, describe the structure of the main part of your essay (your outline) and outline your argument. Here are some French expressions that will certainly help you write your essay:

The body of your essay

essay about my country france

The main part of your French essay deals with the given topic in detail. The subject is studied from all angles. The main body of your essay follows a thread of argument and discusses in detail the main arguments of your thesis previously made in the introduction.

In the body of the text, you should discuss the subject of your essay in clear and concise language. To achieve this, we give you some wording aids as well as vocabulary and phrases that you can use to write your essay in French.

Formulation tools:

French vocabulary for essays.

In the conclusion of your French essay, you address the thesis of your essay, summarize the main points of your discussion in the main body, and draw a conclusion. On the basis of the arguments and the resulting conclusions, you formulate in the conclusion of your dissertation final thoughts and suggestions for the future. It is important that you do not add new information or new arguments. This should only be done in the body of your text.

Here are some wording guides to help you write your essay in French:

Sample French Essay

Les avantages des voyages linguistiques

Malgré les difficultés potentielles, les voyages linguistiques offrent aux apprenants une occasion unique d'améliorer leurs compétences linguistiques et de découvrir de nouvelles cultures, ce qui en fait un investissement précieux pour leur développement personnel et académique.

Les séjours linguistiques sont des voyages organisés dans le but d'améliorer les compétences linguistiques des participants. Ces voyages peuvent se dérouler dans le pays ou à l'étranger et durer d'un week-end à plusieurs semaines. L'un des principaux avantages des séjours linguistiques est l'immersion. Entourés de locuteurs natifs, les apprenants sont contraints de pratiquer et d'améliorer leurs compétences linguistiques dans des situations réelles.Il s'agit d'une méthode d'apprentissage beaucoup plus efficace que le simple fait d'étudier une langue dans une salle de classe.

Un autre avantage des séjours linguistiques est l'expérience culturelle. Voyager dans un nouveau pays permet aux apprenants de découvrir de nouvelles coutumes, traditions et modes de vie, et de se familiariser avec l'histoire et la culture du pays. Cela enrichit non seulement l'expérience d'apprentissage de la langue, mais contribue également à élargir les horizons et à accroître la sensibilisation culturelle.

Cependant, les séjours linguistiques peuvent également présenter des inconvénients. Par exemple, le coût du voyage et de l'hébergement peut être élevé, en particulier pour les séjours de longue durée. En outre, les apprenants peuvent être confrontés à la barrière de la langue ou à un choc culturel, ce qui peut être difficile à surmonter. Le coût et les difficultés potentielles des séjours linguistiques peuvent sembler décourageants, mais ils offrent des avantages précieux en termes d'épanouissement personnel et scolaire.

Les compétences linguistiques et les connaissances culturelles acquises peuvent déboucher sur de nouvelles opportunités d'emploi et améliorer la communication dans un cadre professionnel. Les bourses et les aides financières rendent les séjours linguistiques plus accessibles. Le fait d'être confronté à une barrière linguistique ou à un choc culturel peut également être l'occasion d'un développement personnel. Ces avantages l'emportent largement sur les inconvénients et font des séjours linguistiques un investissement qui en vaut la peine.

En conclusion, malgré les difficultés potentielles, les séjours linguistiques offrent aux apprenants une occasion unique d'améliorer leurs compétences linguistiques et de découvrir de nouvelles cultures, ce qui en fait un investissement précieux pour le développement personnel et académique. Qu'il s'agisse d'un débutant ou d'un apprenant avancé, un voyage linguistique est une expérience à ne pas manquer.

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Home / Essay Samples / World / Paris / Paris – The City Of Dream

Paris - The City Of Dream

  • Category: World , Culture
  • Topic: Paris , Tradition

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