Everything suggested the worst, yet France Télévisions produced a successful program dedicated to the history of France. But without audacity. It is indeed regrettable that the series does not leave the comfortably traced ruts of “battle” history and great men. Six episodes are offered to viewers: from Vercingétorix against Caesar to Henry IV and Queen Margot, including Clovis, the first Christian king, Charlemagne, the crusades of Saint Louis and even Joan of Arc against the English. A very classic menu which is confined to the historiography constructed in the 19th centurye century and serves as the basis for the national novel usually served.
But where this program has merit is that it provides another perspective thanks to historians. Five historical advisors, specialists in their subject and lecturers recognized by their colleagues, participated in the writing of the episodes, thus providing serious educational tools. The series will be available on the Lumni platform aimed at young people. On the production side, Tomer Sisley plays the role of the mischievous presenter questioning historical facts. In a perfecto, among the costumed actors, he is the only anachronism. The lifestyles and clothing are also realistic.
Overall, what do you think of “Our History of France”, the France Télévisions creation?
The first two episodes that I watched, devoted to Vercingetorix and Clovis, are of good quality both in substance and in form. Ultimately, I was pleasantly surprised. After seeing the trailer, I feared a very Puy du Fou production. A patriotic reading of the great men who made France, performed by actors who take up a reactionary and conservative national novel.
But that’s not the case. The title also foreshadowed a catastrophe. It inspires a very high-sounding vision of history, aimed at glorifying “ours”. A possessive adjective which implies an injunction to join a national community retro-projected into the past.
