Rather than envision themselves as agents of state-sponsored repression, the royal book censors of eighteenth-century France wished, through their reports and decisions, to guide the literary traffic of the Enlightenment and expand public awareness of progressive thought.
Europe and the World, 1648-1789, Third Edition
The narrative delves into the intricate social, political, and economic developments in France leading up to the French Revolution, spanning a century and a half. It offers a detailed exploration of the factors that contributed to the revolutionary climate, highlighting key events and influential figures that shaped the era. Birn's writing is noted for its clarity and depth, making complex historical contexts accessible and engaging for readers interested in this transformative period in French history.