Elizabeth Emery Livres

The exploration of late-nineteenth-century French admiration for Gothic architecture, particularly cathedrals, reveals a complex relationship with national identity and art. Despite prior disdain and revolutionary vandalism, cathedrals emerged as symbols of French genius by World War I, even as anti-clerical sentiments surged during church-state separation. Elizabeth Emery delves into the works of influential figures like Zola, Proust, and Monet, analyzing their contributions to the cathedral's cultural significance. This interdisciplinary study engages those interested in Gothic art, European culture, and French literature.

Exploring the cultural history from the end of the Franco-Prussian War to the 1905 separation of Church and State, the book highlights the fascination with the medieval past during a time of significant industrialization. It delves into how this historical period influenced societal values and identity amidst the transformative changes of the era.

Focusing on the evolution of house museums in France, this book explores how the homes of notable writers like Corneille, Hugo, and Proust became integral to French cultural heritage by the late nineteenth century. It examines the role of photojournalism in shaping public perceptions and institutionalizing these sites, highlighting the interplay between literary figures and their domestic spaces. By analyzing media representations, the study reveals how these homes were transformed into symbols of national identity and artistic legacy in modern France.

The collection presents personal reflections from twenty distinguished scholars on how various creatives across different eras have interpreted and shaped the understanding of the Middle Ages through their works. Each contribution highlights the interplay between historical context and artistic expression, showcasing the diverse ways the medieval period has been reimagined by writers, musicians, and artists.