This volume investigates the breadth of French cultural, intellectual, and social history through a condensed, accessible reference format. Joyce M. H. Reid, an experienced editor of Oxford reference materials, synthesizes complex historical and literary data into a structured guide designed to provide quick, accurate context for students and scholars of French studies.

Experts and academics frequently cite this work as a reliable, high-utility resource for students requiring quick access to historical and literary context. Readers often note the density of the information provided, which effectively balances breadth with the constraints of a concise reference format.