The Corpus of Clandestine Literature in France, 1769-1789

The Corpus of Clandestine Literature in France, 1769-1789 is not merely a collection of forbidden texts; it is a meticulously curated window into the intellectual ferment and social undercurrents of pre-revolutionary France, a testament to Robert Darnton's groundbreaking approach to the history of the book and reading. By amassing and analyzing a vast array of banned philosophical treatises, scurrilous pamphlets, and erotic novels, Darnton reveals the complex ways in which ideas circulated and resonated beyond the official channels of censorship. This work showcases his unparalleled ability to reconstruct the lived experience of reading in a period of profound cultural and political transition, demonstrating how seemingly obscure or illicit works played a vital role in shaping public opinion and paving the way for revolutionary change. Its inclusion on a list of Darnton's best books is undeniable due to its exemplary methodology and its profound impact on the field of early modern history. The Corpus exemplifies Darnton's commitment to uncovering the hidden histories and the social life of ideas, moving beyond intellectual biography to explore the material conditions, distribution networks, and diverse readership of texts. It is a masterful demonstration of microhistory and the history of mentalities, offering readers a rich and nuanced understanding of how forbidden knowledge could challenge established authority and contribute to a seismic shift in French society. The sheer ambition and scholarly rigor evident in this project solidify its status as a cornerstone of Darnton's influential corpus.