Literature in France can be traced back to the times before the modern French language had been developed. Literature written in the French language as we know it today began emerging around the 11th century. Prior to this, literature in France was recorded using Latin. Influenced by many cultures, literature later began taking on a true French flavour and has since flourished and made important contributions to European literature.

On the following pages you will find interesting information on some of the most famous authors of French Literature as well as the most important periods of French Literature:

• Literature in the Middle Ages
• Renaissance Literature
• Classicist Literature
• Rationalist Literature
• 19th century Literature
• 20th century Literature

By learning French students will come into more direct contact with authors of the French language. You can develop a deeper understanding of the French literature by taking a French language course in France.