The anti-courtier trend in sixteenth century French literature

Abstract

This thesis is an attempt to survey the development of the Anti-Courtier Trend in sixteenth century French literature. The first part of the thesis is devoted to an examination of the literary sources which influenced this trend, starting with Latin and Greek literature, and including Neo-Latin works, Italian works, Spanish works and finally, Medieval works - both in Latin and in French. Part two is a chronological survey of the sixteenth century French works which constitute the anti-courtier trend. It is divided into three chapters which represent three distinct periods in the evolution of the trend. These are, firstly, the Pre-Renaissance period, from 1498-1539, secondly, the Renaissance period, from 1540-1559, and finally, the period of the Religious Wars, from 1560 to the close of the century. Each of these chapters is preceded by a short account of the factors, political, social, economic and literary, operative in determining or modifying the development and evolution of the trend in that particular period. The thesis is completed by two appendices, the first a chronological list of sixteenth century French works comprising the anti-courtier trend, the second a bibliography of the French translations of the works of Antonio de Guevara published between 1531-1605, and finally by a bibliography of works consulted.