Society

The virtues of gallantry

By Antoine Lévêque · May 17, 2025

Is gallantry an instrument of female submission? Certainly not, according to Jennifer Tamas, a specialist in 17th-century French literature and author of a recent essay on the subject.

Literature

Paul Morand, itinerary of a cosmopolitan anti-Semite

By Antoine Lévêque · 02 May 2025

Those who believe in Morand's black legend remember only his anti-Semitism, while those who are attached to his golden legend salute above all his cosmopolitanism. However, ignoring either of these two dimensions of his personality proves futile.

History

The Lake Geneva region at the heart of the «Republic of Letters».»

By Antoine Lévêque · 24 March 2025

At least since the 18th century and Voltaire's sojourns in Lausanne and Geneva, the Lake Geneva region has been a haven for many intellectuals, attracted by its peaceful political climate and the prospect of a relaxing life.

Society

The 19th century: the rise of rebellious youth

By Antoine Lévêque · December 26, 2024

According to some historians of ideas, the 19th century marked a break with earlier times, when old age was still seen as a guarantee of experience and a role model for younger generations.

History

Frederick II, in his own way a precursor of liberalism

By Antoine Lévêque · November 27, 2024

Many studies of the reign of Frederick II, King of Prussia from 1740 to 1786, emphasize the authoritarian nature of the regime he led. To leave it at that, however, would be to overlook the liberal orientation of the political writings of this «enlightened despot».

World

Cyprus: two memories in conflict

By Antoine Lévêque · November 18, 2024

In July this year, Greeks and Turks commemorated fifty years since the partition of Cyprus. Here we take a look at the political situation, and how it might evolve in the future.

World

Immigration: Labour's reality check

By Antoine Lévêque · 04 October 2024

The British Labour Party won last July's election thanks to the support of an electorate committed to a restrictive migration policy. However, it remains to be seen whether Labour will be able to deliver on its promises in this area.

World

Dependent on China, Australia is still trying to cope

By Antoine Lévêque · 07 September 2024

Australia has no hesitation in supporting the efforts of the United States and its allies to combat the rise of China, despite the fact that it is its leading economic partner. This de facto dependence limits Canberra's strategic room for manoeuvre.

History

The high nobility's ambiguous relationship with money

By Antoine Lévêque · August 08, 2024

After the First World War, many aristocratic houses were forced to join forces with members of the upper middle classes in order to survive. Their relationship to money underwent a profound change. Many of them are now successful businessmen.