French Bourgeois Culture
Cambridge University Press
Edition: Illustrated, 6/16/1994
EAN 9780521466264, ISBN10: 0521466261
Paperback, 180 pages, 22.9 x 15.2 x 1.1 cm
Language: English
The French gave us the term 'bourgeois', and then proceeded to argue endlessly about what it meant. According to the Oxford English Dictionary it means 'of or pertaining to the French middle classes'. But it is not a simple matter of social class. Beatrix Le Wita sets out to demonstrate that to be bourgeois one must master a system of words, gestures and objects that define a way of life, a particular culture. It requires the exercise of self-control, and the ritualisation of daily routines. The bourgeoisie must furnish their room in just the right way, dress correctly, and tactfully invoke family history and custom. This witty, observant ethnography decodes the culture that dominates France.
1. Introduction
2. Definition by defamation
3. The making of Laure
4. The parable of the talents
5. The three generations
Conclusion
Appendix.