Briefe eines reisenden Franzosen über Deutschland an seinen Bruder zu Paris - Riesbeck, Johann Kaspar 1754-1786 (Zürich, 1784)
In the form of letters allegedly written by a Frenchman traveling in Germany, Riesbeck exposes for the first time the gap between the French Enlightenment and Germany's backwardness, on the eve of the French Revolution; he severely criticizes the social and religious mores of his country, as well as its political administration; but he also underlines its strengths, particularly in scientific, literary and philosophical matters, to show himself convinced that the German nation possesses the qualities necessary for its regeneration.
Originally published in 1783
Ex libris Maclean of Ardgour (plate)
Keywords: 18th Century (1701-1800); Travel; Enlightenment; Crescendo; Correspondence; Germany