What comes to mind when you say “French culture”?
From personal experience, most people immediately think, at best, of an elitist and inaccessible culture that only Emmanuel Halperin probably understands. At worst, we see books like “Madame Bovary” or “Father Goriot” before our eyes and immediately think of the literature teacher from high school (usually not a pleasant experience).
So let me prove to you exactly the opposite.
culture France It's about love (in its many forms), beauty, and culinary art. The people who created it were some of the most colorful and fascinating people in human history. And speaking of history, if you take a close look at the history of France in general and Paris in particular, you'll discover that it was all about sex, culinary art (which joined in the 17th century), and nonstop action of wars, murders, and conspiracies.
In short, this is material that could support endless action and gripping drama films. So I invite you to join me on a fascinating cultural journey in a series of lectures that will bring Paris, France, and its culture to you – without having to buy a plane ticket.
Francophile frontal lectures
There is nothing I love more than meeting Francophiles and giving them lectures at their homes, workplaces, or lecture halls. I have created a series of fascinating lectures, and all you have to do is choose which lecture interests you the most and invite me to give a lecture to you 🙂
Sex and the City of Lights
Join me on a fascinating virtual tour of Paris's spiciest secrets. Together, we'll peel back the layers of history and discover what really happened in the rooms - from the mythical brothels, to the royal mistresses, to the swingers' clubs.
To see Paris and die
Come on a journey into the dark secrets of city of Lights.
Meet Charles Sanson – the man who became “Monsieur de Paris,” France’s chief executioner. Without intending to, he founded a seven-generation dynasty of executioners.
This is not just any lecture. It is a glimpse into a dark, suspenseful, far-fetched Paris – but completely real.
Who wants to be a Francophile?
An interactive lecture in which the audience learns, through riddles, about the secret and spicy parts of French culture: How was the baguette really created? Which French mistress adopted the Star of David as a symbol? Which French chef committed suicide because he was missing a basket of shrimp?
The secrets of the Marais district
A series of 3 lectures about my favorite district in Paris. During the lecture, we will not only learn about the fascinating history of the district (about 1,000 years old!), but we will also take three virtual tours to discover all the most charming, delicious, and interesting places there.
A trip to Paris in the footsteps of Napoleon
A virtual tour of Paris in the footsteps of the Emperor. We will visit iconic places like the Arc de Triomphe and the Palais des Invalides, but also hidden places, like the street where he was almost assassinated.
A trip to Paris following Molière
Molière was born and died in Paris. We will discover “his Paris”: the city where he performed his plays, the city where he lived and drank with his friends, and the places that inspired his greatest comedies.
Lectures from the armchair
High-quality online lectures for direct viewing
Everything knowledge-seeking Francophiles need
The “Lectures from the Armchair” project contains more than 1,700 high-quality recorded lectures with subtitles.
Special benefit for Francophiles: Lectures on Chopin, Matisse and jazz music for free!
Recordings of lectures on France and its culture
In collaboration with Dr. Nofar Israeli (“French is Poetry”). Fascinating lectures on art, history, cuisine and literature – available to watch in your free time.
The Secrets of the Marais (Recording)
A series of three lectures by me about the Marais district in which we will learn about the history of the district and take a virtual tour of all its attractions.
From Marie Antoinette to Josephine: A Fashion Legacy
A fascinating lecture by Ariella Goichman Gerber that deals with the influence of Marie Antoinette on fashion to this day.
Sex, Intrigue and Poison
A lecture by Iris Booker dealing with the “Poison Affair” during the reign of Louis XIV. Mistresses, witches, and countless poisonings.