Portret van Claire Friché before 1900

This is a page from Nouveau Larousse Illustré, a popular French encyclopedia published in the early 20th century. On the right page, we find a theater program, including a portrait of the actress Claire Friché. The Larousse Illustré was more than just a reference book, it was an institution. In France, at this time, encyclopedias weren't just compendiums of knowledge. The Larousse promoted a particular vision of French culture and national identity. It aimed to disseminate knowledge widely, shaping public opinion and reinforcing social norms through its selection of content and its manner of presentation. Its emphasis on illustration also reveals the increasing importance of visual culture at the turn of the century. Further research into the publishing history of Larousse, its contributors, and its readership, would shed light on the social and cultural forces that shaped its production and reception. By studying such sources, we can better understand the encyclopedia's role in shaping French society and culture at the dawn of the modern era.