IN BRIEF
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There Chateaubriand Distinction 2024 honors one of the most emblematic figures in French history, Marie Antoinette. Awarded by the Department of Hauts-de-Seine, this prize celebrates a work of research which explores the complex and little-known life of the queen, revealing its political and human dimensions. In a context where the image of Marie-Antoinette has often been reduced to that of a frivolous monarchy, the award-winning biography aims to restore her legacy through a rigorous and documented approach, giving voice to the one who was both woman, mother and sovereign in the face of adversity.
This year, the Chateaubriand Prize was awarded to Charles-Éloi Vial for his fascinating work on Marie Antoinette, a biography that transforms our perception of this emblematic figure of French history. Through careful analysis of the archives, the author reveals a little-known side of the queen, portraying her as an influential politician rather than a simple frivolous figure.
A prestigious prize rewarding historical research
Created in 1987 by the Department of Hauts-de-Seine, the Chateaubriand Prize highlights works of historical research or literary history relating to the period in which the writer lived François-René de Chateaubriand, ranging from the Age of Enlightenment to the mid-19th century. The main objective is to highlight works that enrich our understanding of the cultural and social issues of this era.
The jury’s journey and the selection of works
The jury, made up of experts from various academic backgrounds, examines a multitude of works before selecting those which deserve to stand out. The selection for the Prize includes a reading committee which prepares proposals, while the final jury, chaired by Xavier Darcos, adds his own choice. A distinction which guarantees not only the quality of the awarded works, but also the enrichment of the cultural debate.
The members of the jury
The jury is made up of remarkable figures, including historians, professors and members of the Institute. Among them, we find Lucien Bély, Jean-Louis Bourlanges, And Françoise Mélonio, all recognized in their field of expertise and having a key role in the evaluation of the works.
A revolutionary work on Marie-Antoinette
In his book, Charles-Éloi Vial sheds light on the personality of Marie Antoinette in a new light by dissecting the historical archives. Instead of focusing solely on her reputation as a frivolous queen, the author explores her personal relationships and the political aspects of her reign. With kindness, Vial paints the portrait of a woman often misunderstood, but endowed with immense inner strength in the face of adversity.
A fresh look at royalty
The book strives to destroy the stereotypes surrounding Marie Antoinette. Vial presents us with a deeply human woman, grappling with considerable political issues. By revealing her interactions with her husband, her great affection for her children, and her sometimes tumultuous relationships with those close to her, this biography will take a new look at the figure of the last queen of France.
The award ceremony and its implications
There official presentation of the 2024 Chateaubriand Prize is planned in Paris, in the prestigious framework of the Institut de France, on February 4, 2025. This moment constitutes a symbolic recognition of the importance of history in French culture and for the literary heritage of Chateaubriand.
References and inspirations
To find out more about the consequences and implications of this distinction, the official website as well as relays such as Hauts-de-Seine offer interesting information and updates on the subject. These resources will show how Vial’s work contributes to enriching our knowledge of a fascinating and complex historical period.
Discover the news of the Chateaubriand prize
Image credits: ©Bruno Klein
FAQ about the 2024 Chateaubriand Distinction
When is the 2024 Chateaubriand Prize awarded? The official presentation will take place on February 4, 2025 at 6 p.m. at the Institut de France, in Paris.
Who won the 2024 Chateaubriand Prize? Charles-Éloi Vial was rewarded for his biography entitled “Marie-Antoinette”.
What subjects are covered in Charles-Éloi Vial’s work? The book explores the life of Marie Antoinette, demystifying her image as a frivolous queen to reveal her political and personal influences.
Who chairs the Prix Chateaubriand jury? The jury is chaired by Xavier Darcos, Chancellor of the Institut de France.
How much is the reward for the winner? The Chateaubriand Prize is awarded 8,000 euros by the Department of Hauts-de-Seine.
What type of works is rewarded by the Chateaubriand Prize? The prize rewards works of historical research or literary history centered on Chateaubriand’s period, from the Age of Enlightenment to the mid-19th century.
What other works were finalists for this edition? Among the finalists are titles such as “La Mort du Roi” by Olivier Bétourné and “Victor Hugo et la Commune” by Christian Godin.
