The Renaissance of arts and letters is inspired by Italy, but France often is a mediator. English travellers cross the country. After 1670, the diffusion of French classics is indisputable. From Dryden to Pope, from Congreve to Vanbrugh and Wycherley, people read, translate and admire Racine, Moli re and Boileau. The influence of French classicism is so deep and lasting that Coleridge speaks at the beginning of the 19th century of this French school of poetry, to which English reason has given weight and strength, that was uppermost during the last century.
Geometry is today the most honoured science.
Since the English are the best geometricians, we are told to look up to them as our masters in all things. Their language has recently been ranked among the languages of learning. Even women read English, having given up the study of Italian to learn the speech of this philosophical people. From now on, often passionate attention to what England has to teach and admiration for the products of English genius after centuries of indifference will never vanish from France. Watson, Lowth nourishing Chateaubriand's immense readings in his exile.