The French Academy

In 1626, some amateurs of literature (...) were in the habit of meeting once a week at the house of their friend Conrart to proceed with learned discussions. This small gathering soon grew (...) and informed Richelieu. The Cardinal was interested in literature and dreamed of uniting writers under his auspices; he took the opportunity to offer his official protection. A society was established. At the outset, it comprised 27 members, held its first session on March 13, 1634 and a week later took the name of French Academy. This institution was recognised in 1635 by Royal Patent letters, and after some resistance was acknowledged by the parliament two years later. In the mind of its founders, the Academy was a selection of intellectuals, whose authority could exercise a positive influence on the language and literature. From 1639 it numbers 40 members. Among the first academicians were not only writers, but also scholars, lawyers, physicians, and men of state. The first meetings held included speeches on various topics; then it was decided to judge literary works in the name of good taste and etiquette, and to establish the rules of correct language. Chapelain wrote The Thoughts of the Academy on Le Cid and drew up the plan for a Dictionary on which work commenced, altough the first edition did not appeared until 1694. The compilation of works on grammar, rhetoric and poetics were also planned. Among the academicians, Vaugelas exercised a considerable personal role with the publication in 1647 of his Remarks on the French Language. He defines his method in a lengthy preface (...) and in the text of the book (...), decides if such a word, turn of phrase, is of a correct usage. (...) Henceforth, high society has an instrument precisely conceived to allow it to translate its manner of thought and sentiment.
Translated from "Manuel des Etudes Littéraires Françaises - 17th century - Hachette"