Adam, Juliette

About the author

Juliette Adam (1836–1936) was a French author, salonnière, and political activist who played a significant role in the cultural and intellectual life of 19th-century France. Known for her sharp intellect and fierce patriotism, Adam was deeply involved in the social and political movements of her time, advocating for Republican ideals and resisting authoritarianism.

Adam’s literary career is marked by her insightful essays, novels, and political writings, many of which reflect her strong beliefs in democracy and national unity. Her novel Païenne (The Pagan Woman) is one of her best-known works, offering a compelling exploration of love, morality, and societal expectations.

As a salon hostess, Adam welcomed some of the most influential writers, politicians, and thinkers of her era, including Victor Hugo and Léon Gambetta. Her Parisian salon became a hub for intellectual exchange and a platform for discussing the pressing issues of the day.

Juliette Adam also founded and edited La Nouvelle Revue, a prominent literary and political journal that provided a voice for Republican ideals and supported emerging literary talent. Through her journalistic work, she exerted significant influence on French and European public opinion, especially during the tumultuous years of the Franco-Prussian War and the Third Republic.

Her memoirs and correspondence offer a vivid glimpse into the cultural and political life of France during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, making her an essential figure for understanding this dynamic period in history. Juliette Adam’s contributions to literature, politics, and intellectual discourse continue to be celebrated today.