French History Ateliers

French History Atelier in 3 Sessions – 1. The Last of the Bourbon Kings;  2. Louis XIV and the Court at Versailles;  3. The Origins of Bastille Day

We are pleased to offer these 3 exciting and fascinating history ateliers that explain the emergence of the French Republic and brings this whole period of change to life.  These classes are presented by our own Jean-Baptiste Berthelin whose passion and insight brings a keen understanding and appreciation of the evolution and development of French society, culture and government.  These classes will be offered in English only.  You may sign up for 1, 2 or all 3 sessions.

The Last of the Bourbon Kings
With the help of works of art and documents, this class will study the personalities, achievements and legacies of the last five Bourbon kings, from the late 1600s to the mid-1800s.

Louis XIV and the Court at Versailles
Using documents and works of art, this class will give a detailed account of the life of the king and his court in Versailles from 1643 to 1715, with a focus on how the king implemented a strict code of rules (‘etiquette’) to keep the aristocracy under his control.

The Origins of Bastille Day
This class will analyze the main characters, developments and outcome of the events taking place on July 14^th, 1789. Additionally, it will provide a historical perspective and explain how it became the symbol of France’s ‘fete nationale’. Documents, artworks and texts will illustrate the class.

Tuition

Members: $50; Non-Members: $60
Instructor: Jean-Baptiste Berthelin
Time: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location:  United Methodist Church, 7 Vanderventer Ave., Princeton, NJ 08542
Dates   –    The Last of the Bourbon Kings – September 13
                   Louis XIV and the Court at Versailles – October 11
                  The Origins of Bastille Day – November 15