A Brief History of Paris

by Cecil Jenkins

city of love, food and fashion.

the city that played host to major historical and cultural dramas.

a modern metropolis.

Paris is all of these, all at once, all the time.

There is a unique fusion of past and present in this purposefully grand and well-planned city. The Triumphal Way, which runs straight from the Louvre through the Tuileries Gardens, across the Place de la Concorde - where the guillotine once stood - through the Arc de Triomphe towards the Arche de la Défense and into the modern business district is just one example of the many eras that remain present.

Famously a city for walkers, Paris has echoes of its history at every turn. Wandering through Montmartre, you will discover the birthplace of the energetic cancan at the Moulin Rouge; stroll around Montparnasse and see the haunts of American writer Ernest Hemingway; observe the striking new Opéra de la Bastille, which stands in the same place as the notorious prison.

To walk in Paris is to walk in history.

Cecil Jenkins recounts the often turbulent history with due attention to social conditions and cultural development as well as to the political events that shaped the city. It is the colourful story of a city emerging to modernity through repeated conflicts, both internal and a struggle between piety and passion, prince and peasant, against competing countries in Europe.

Genres: History, France, Nonfiction

320 pages, Paperback

Published January 24, 2023

About the author

I was educated at Trinity College Dublin, plus postgraduate work at the Ecole Normale Superieure de Paris. I have taught at university level in Paris, then at Exeter and Sussex, with year as visiting prof at UBC Vancouver.
My literary interests are in French and German as well as in English, but I am also interested in philosophy, history and politics.
A former soccer player, I enjoy various sports as well the theatre and the cinema.
I am married with a daughter and twin sons, and I now live - rather to my surprise - in the bourgeois arty pseudo-village of Hampstead in London, UK.

Reviews

[Milan Jansen · Rating 3 out of 5]

To encapsulate the history of Paris, from its founding BCE to its current state, is an ambitious venture on behalf of the author indeed. And while the story behind one of the most historically influential European cities is certainly astounding, its history is not that easily summarised. The result is a decent but tough read that is anything but "brief".

[Beau Farley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical jargon with enough little facts in to make it actually quite enjoyable

[Leni · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A Brief History of Paris" by Cecil Jenkins offers readers a concise yet illuminating glimpse into the heart and soul of one of the world's most enchanting cities. While it may not be an exhaustive tome on Paris, it certainly succeeds in providing a better understanding of how this iconic city operates, its origins, organization, and the intriguing reasons behind its unique rhythm.

Jenkins' writing effortlessly guides the reader through centuries of Parisian history, revealing the intricate details that have shaped the city's character. What I found most compelling about this book is its ability to shed light on the everyday aspects of Paris, all deeply rooted in its past.

By the time I turned the final page, I felt like I had gained valuable insights into the very essence of Paris. It's as though I had been given a backstage pass to the city's inner workings, enabling me to appreciate why it functions the way it does today.

Jenkins' narrative, though brief, doesn't skimp on the details. He masterfully weaves together historical events, cultural influences, and urban development, allowing readers to connect the dots between the past and the present. This holistic approach made me realize that the Paris of today is a living testament to its rich and complex history.

While "A Brief History of Paris" won't make you an expert on the city, it does something equally important—it provides you with a foundation upon which you can build your understanding and appreciation of Paris. It's the kind of book that inspires you to delve deeper into the city's history, culture, and nuances, whether you're a resident, planning a visit, or simply wanting to enrich your knowledge.

In essence, reading this book is like peering through a keyhole into Paris's soul, glimpsing its origins, organization, and the subtle yet profound reasons behind its unique character. If you're seeking a quick but enlightening journey through the City of Light, "A Brief History of Paris" is a delightful choice that will leave you with a better grasp of the city's everyday life rooted in its intriguing and captivating past.

[Tim Hassall · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a brief history, but it’s packed with facts about the city. The book focuses on the big events and kings and politicians, but then it does shift to the common people. The author tries to balance the political history with the common history. It’s tilted more to the political, but there’s enough of both.

If you’re looking for a quick history of an entire city, this is a book to check out.

[Piper Winchester · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not too long with details and nicely put together

[natalie :) · Rating 3 out of 5]

lovely summer read, also an ego kick to read books where you can analyse the info theyve put out hehe

[Justin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent

[Philip · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. If you want to brush up on the history of France, this book is a great choice. There is plenty of content, but the read is not too heavy.

[Jenna Maree-Kipling · Rating 3 out of 5]

AUDIO: Super interesting! Really helped prep for our trip to Paris. This is an actual history & knowledge book. There’s no story line, so don’t expect that. If you’re traveling to the City of Lights and want to learn, this is for you.