Skip to product information
1 of 1

Understanding France

Regular price $38.95
Regular price $38.95 Sale price $38.95
Sold out
This concise yet comprehensive volume gives a compelling introduction to the politics, society, economy and culture of France. Moving beyond popular stereotypes, the book explores the reality of a ...
Read More
  • 27 May 2025
View Product Details

This concise yet comprehensive volume gives a compelling introduction to the politics, society, economy and culture of France.

Moving beyond popular stereotypes, the book explores the reality of a diverse and changeable France. It examines the significance of developments from #MeToo to the 2024 Paris Olympics, while placing France in its international context and assessing its response to global crises.

The book provides:

• an accessible, jargon-free account informed by the latest data;

• an up-to-date analysis of today’s political landscape;

• an ideal introduction for students and general readers alike.

Building on the success of its predecessor volume Contemporary France, this is a highly authoritative text that offers its readers keys for understanding how France is facing the challenges and opportunities of today’s world.

files/i.png Icon
Price: $38.95
Pages: 288
Publisher: Bristol University Press
Imprint: Bristol University Press
Publication Date: 27 May 2025
ISBN: 9781529229950
Format: Paperback
BISACs: POLITICAL SCIENCE / Comparative Politics, Comparative politics, HISTORY / Europe / France, POLITICAL SCIENCE / International Relations / General, POLITICAL SCIENCE / World / European, Central / national / federal government policies, Revolutionary groups and movements, International relations, International institutions / intergovernmental organizations, Political activism / Political engagement
REVIEWS Icon

“Helen Drake really knows France! This is the best comprehensive analysis I have read in English for a long time. It is clear, lively and accessible to everybody who wants to understand French politics and society.” Christian Lequesne, Sciences Po Paris, France

“Gives readers the keys to understanding change and continuity in contemporary France. A must-read for those curious about and befuddled by France.” Sophie Meunier, Princeton University, US

Helen Drake is Professor of French and European Studies and Director of the Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs, Loughborough University London.

Introduction

1. History and Legacies

2. France and the French

3. Politics and the Republic

4. Government, Governance and the State

5. Society and Identity

6. Culture and Leisure

7. Economy and Business

8. France in the World

Conclusions