Momus philosophe: Recherches sur une figure littéraire du XVIIIe siècle is a scholarly study by Dominique Quéro that examines the persona of Momus, the ancient Greek god of satire and criticism, as it appeared in French literary culture during the 1700s. The book traces how writers, philosophers, and polemicists of the Enlightenment employed the figure of Momus to voice dissent, mock authority, and explore the boundaries of free expression. Drawing on a wide range of primary sources—including pamphlets, plays, and correspondence—Quéro shows how Momus became a versatile mask for intellectuals navigating the tense political and cultural climate of pre‑Revolutionary France. The work combines literary history, intellectual history, and cultural analysis to reveal the ways satire shaped public discourse and contributed to the broader currents of Enlightenment thought. Presented in a clear, accessible style, the volume serves both specialists in eighteenth‑century French studies and readers interested in the history of satire and criticism.

Log in to favorite or list