L'invention des Bas-fonds parisiens / Conférence 7 : Paris 1840 : Le baptême des Bas-Faonds

Introduction to the Conference on Paris' Underbelly

Overview of the Conference Series

• The speaker reflects on a journey through various historical sites in Paris, including Châtelet and Palais Royal, concluding a series organized by the Comité d'histoire de la ville de Paris.

• This final stage focuses on the "bafons," which have become objects of both reproach and fascination over time.

Speaker Introduction

• Dominique Khifa, a professor at Paris 1 and specialist in crime history and marginalized communities, is introduced as the presenter for this session. He has authored a book published in 2013 about these themes.

• Acknowledgment is given to Khifa for initiating this conference cycle, highlighting his role in its organization.

Exploring the Concept of "Bafons"

Historical Context

• The speaker expresses happiness to conclude this cycle dedicated to "bafons," noting that many attendees likely visited an exhibition related to this theme that was well-received in Paris.

• There’s an acknowledgment of how discussions around "bafons" have evolved, with references made to previous lectures covering various aspects of crime and marginalization throughout history.

Evolution of Terminology

• The term "bafon" emerged around 1840; prior discussions did not use this specific terminology despite similar realities existing historically. The speaker aims to clarify how this expression developed over time.

• It is noted that while exploring prisons or discussing figures like Mandrin or Cartouche, these subjects were part of what would later be categorized under "bafons." However, they were not labeled as such at that time.

Cultural Significance of Bafons

Representation in Literature

• The concept has transcended borders and languages, becoming a significant representation of poverty, vice, and societal transgressions within cultural narratives globally.

• An example is provided through literature: “Les bafons de Paris” by Aré Bruant serves as an important historical document reflecting life during the Belle Époque era in Paris. This work has recently been reissued due to its enduring relevance and popularity among readers today.

Conclusion Remarks

• The speaker emphasizes how deeply ingrained the notion of “bafons” has become within both French culture and international contexts, marking it as an archetypal representation associated with marginalized urban experiences in Paris specifically.

Understanding the Concept of "Bas-Fonds" in Historical Context

The Imaginary and Identity Formation

• The discussion begins with the connection between historical imagination and identity, specifically referencing Paris in 1840. The speaker emphasizes that this imaginary has ancient roots, suggesting a deep-seated cultural significance.

• Naming plays a crucial role in shaping reality; when something is named, it acquires a new dimension. This highlights the importance of language in forming identities and perceptions.

Maritime Origins of "Bas-Fonds"

• The term "bas-fonds" initially carries a maritime connotation, referring to shallow waters that are navigable yet dangerous due to hidden rocks. This definition underscores the inherent risks associated with these areas.

• A detailed description of "bas-fonds" as parts of water where navigation is possible but fraught with danger is provided, emphasizing caution required for safe passage.

Evolution of Meaning Over Time

• Citing the 1718 edition of the Dictionnaire de l'Académie française, the speaker notes that "bas-fonds" refers to shallow waters where one can navigate but may easily run aground. This reflects an early understanding of the term's implications.

• By the late 18th century, definitions evolved to include topographical meanings—referring to low-lying or marshy lands often deemed undesirable for habitation. This shift indicates changing societal views on geography and living conditions.

Societal Implications and Further Developments

• In discussing later interpretations from dictionaries around 1798, it becomes clear that "bas-fonds" also describes fertile yet frequently flooded terrains. However, there remains no association with negative social connotations at this point.

• The transition towards associating "bas-fonds" with negative social elements occurs later; earlier definitions focus on physical geography rather than moral or social degradation.

Social Class Associations by the 19th Century

• By 1863, Émile Littré defines "bas-fonds" as a class of despicable men within society. This marks a significant shift from geographical terms to social commentary regarding marginalized groups.

• Pierre Larousse’s contemporaneous definition further emphasizes individuals degraded by vice and poverty, indicating an awareness of socio-economic factors contributing to societal issues during this period.

This structured overview captures key insights from the transcript while providing timestamps for easy reference back to specific points discussed.

Environmental Influences on Behavior and Health

The Connection Between Environment and Individual Characteristics

• The discussion highlights the strong relationship between individuals and their environments, suggesting that identifiable traits of people are often linked to specific locations.

• It is noted that spaces have inherent characteristics that influence behaviors and health, a concept prevalent before the advent of Pasteurian medicine which shifted focus from miasmas to contagion and microbes.

• The speaker emphasizes the social acceptance of these ideas, indicating that while individuals are central to this discourse, they remain connected to their geographical contexts.

Characteristics of Spaces and Individuals

• The term "bafons" is introduced, referring to depressed areas where certain traits manifest strongly among individuals.

• Key characteristics identified include extreme poverty, vice, immorality, and crime; these elements are intertwined in shaping societal conditions during this period.

• The interplay between poverty, vice, and crime is described as creating an unstable state within society; different narratives may emphasize one aspect over another.

Perspectives on Poverty, Vice, and Crime

• There exists a debate regarding causation: whether poverty leads to vice/crime or if vice/crime leads to poverty. This reflects differing ideological perspectives (progressive vs. liberal).

• Octave Ferré's quote illustrates the perceived sequence of misfortune: misery begets vice which then leads to crime; this perspective aligns with leftist views.

Historical Contextualization

• An example from 1851 discusses an investigation into Edinburgh's impoverished areas linking indigence with prostitution and crime—demonstrating historical patterns across cities like New York as well.

• These themes recur frequently in literature about urban environments where various social issues converge.

Naming Convergence of Social Issues

• The speaker notes that while issues like poverty have existed long before the 19th century, naming this convergence gives it significance in understanding societal dynamics.

• Acknowledgment is made regarding the evolving nature of lexicography; new texts may emerge that could alter current understandings of these terms.

This structured summary encapsulates key discussions around environmental influences on individual behavior and health as presented in the transcript. Each point links back to specific timestamps for easy reference.

Emergence of the Term "Bfond" in 1840

Introduction to the Concept

• The speaker reflects on their limited search regarding the term "bfond," noting that no one has contradicted their findings about its emergence.

Key Texts from 1840

• In 1840, three different authors used the term "bfond" in varied contexts, which is notable given their lack of connection.

• Honoré de Balzac was among these authors, using "bfond" in his lesser-known novel Z marcas, published on July 25, 1840. This period marked the rise of serialized novels.

Balzac's Usage

• Balzac's writing includes a reference to societal issues such as conspiracies and class struggles, indicating a lower social sphere where intelligence is lacking but talent exists.

• He describes a place characterized by both despair and hidden courage, emphasizing a duality between high and low societal spheres.

Other Authors' Contributions

• Constantin Pecqueur, another author from 1840, wrote about economic inequalities and how wealthy classes contribute to social unrest through their fortunes.

• Pecqueur is categorized as an early Christian socialist who analyzed social conditions and proposed improvements for marginalized populations.

Frégier's Perspective

• Honoré Frégier also contributed to this discourse by addressing dangerous urban classes in response to an academic inquiry about improving their situations.

• His work won first prize at the Academy of Moral and Political Sciences competition in 1838 but was published later in 1840; thus, it’s unclear if he used "bfond" earlier.

Significance of Multiple Perspectives

• The simultaneous emergence of "bfond" across literature, economic theory, and social control highlights its multifaceted significance during this period.

• The year 1840 marks a pivotal moment where diverse fields began incorporating this term into discussions about society's structure and challenges.

Exploring the Concept of "Underworld" in Language

The Evolution of the Term "Underworld"

• The term "être" is examined across various authors, highlighting its usage and diffusion in Latin languages such as Spanish ("Baros fondos") and Italian ("bassifondi").

• Notably, Portuguese lacks a direct equivalent for "bafond," instead borrowing from French expressions like "bfond."

• The English term "Underworld," which translates to "under the world," has existed since the 17th century but originally referred specifically to pagan hell rather than social contexts.

• Initially, "Underworld" described Greek or Latin hells without any social connotation; it later adopted a social character similar to that of "bafond."

• In 1869, the first American use of “underworld” appeared in a text titled The Woman of New York or the Underworld of the Great City, marking its emergence with a specific meaning.

Shifts in Meaning Over Time

• By the 1920s, “Underworld” evolved in English to signify organized crime rather than just impoverished areas, reflecting societal changes.

• Despite this shift, during its initial emergence in New York and England, it retained meanings associated with extreme poverty and immorality.

• Other terms like “slums” emerged around this time but were more focused on physical locations rather than encompassing broader social issues.

Linguistic Parallels Across Cultures

• German adopted “huntervelt” around 1870–80 with similar implications as “Underworld,” transitioning towards organized crime post-WWI.

• Unlike French's “bafond,” which maintained its original meaning longer, both English and German terms shifted towards criminal associations by the 1920s.

Cultural Reflections Through Literature

• The rapid spread of these terms reflects societal conditions where crime and poverty intersected significantly during the 19th century.

• Eugène Sue’s Les Mystères de Paris (1842), explores infamous locales within Paris, contributing to public consciousness about vice and crime through vivid storytelling.

• Characters like Rodolphe and Fleur de Marie symbolize struggles within these underbelly environments, reinforcing cultural narratives surrounding poverty and morality.

The Global Impact of "Les Mystères de Paris"

The Phenomenon of Imitation and Parody

• "Les Mystères de Paris" has been an extraordinary success not only in France but globally, leading to numerous imitations and parodies.

• A research team from the University of Montpellier conducted a quantitative study to explore the phenomenon of urban mysteries, revealing its extensive reach.

Digital Cataloging and Discovery

• The researchers utilized digital tools to harvest data from library catalogs worldwide, uncovering hundreds of urban mystery publications.

• Many mysteries were published within 20 years following the original work, with some appearing much later, indicating a long-lasting influence.

Mapping Urban Mysteries

• The research team created a cartography of these urban mysteries, available on a website called Mia 19, organized by Laval University and Montpellier University.

• This site features sections dedicated to 19th-century media and allows users to visualize the spread of urban mysteries across different regions.

Cultural Globalization Through Literature

• The spread of "Les Mystères de Paris" is argued to be one of the first major instances of cultural globalization through media.

• In the U.S. alone, over 150 urban mysteries were published between 1845 and 1860, showcasing their widespread appeal even in smaller towns.

Influence on Other Literary Works

• The popularity of urban mysteries contributed significantly to shaping literary imaginations during that era; Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables," published in 1862, was influenced by this trend.

• Hugo's writing process for "Les Misérables" spanned several years (1845–1848), reflecting themes similar to those found in "Les Mystères de Paris."

Themes in Hugo's Work

• Hugo aimed to illustrate redemption through his character Jean Valjean’s journey from darkness into light while addressing societal issues prevalent in Paris at that time.

• Despite being engaged in various political activities post-revolutionary France, Hugo continued developing his narrative around social struggles until he completed "Les Misérables."

Historical Context and Setting

• The setting for "Les Misérables" reflects pre-Haussmannian Paris (before significant renovations), emphasizing the socio-economic conditions before major changes began around 1862.

• A notable chapter titled “Le Bas Fond” uses metaphors related to mines and miners as a means to explore deeper societal issues within the narrative.

The Concept of the "Bas-Fond" in Literature

The Nature of the Bas-Fond

• The bas-fond is described as a terrifying and abominable cave, symbolizing absolute evil with an intention to destroy everything.

• It is associated with notorious characters like the bandits from Montparnasse, who plot against Jean Valjean and Cosette in "Les Misérables," highlighting its connection to malevolence.

Historical Context and Literary References

• In 1862, author Henry Meunier published "Les Bafons de la Société," indicating that the term 'bas-fond' had gained significant recognition within two decades of its introduction.

• The concept has roots in ancient history, referencing depictions such as Gustave Doré's portrayal of the Cour des Miracles.

Evolution of Imagery

• Victor Hugo played a crucial role in shaping the imaginary surrounding the Cour des Miracles, which was not a historical reality but rather a 19th-century construct.

• The imagery associated with bas-fonds draws on biblical representations of cities like Sodom and Gomorrah, linking it to deep-seated cultural narratives about morality.

Socioeconomic Implications

• The notion of 'mauvais pauvre' (bad poor), emerging from 13th-century Christian theology, reflects societal shifts where poverty became associated with moral failing rather than sanctity.

• This transformation contributed to negative perceptions of poverty during times of social upheaval, particularly noted by scholars discussing the evolution of societal views on beggars and poverty.

Political Context in 19th Century France

• The discussion transitions into why the 19th century saw a resurgence in these themes; five key reasons are identified for this shift.

• One major factor is linked to fears stemming from the French Revolution regarding lower classes becoming politically threatening due to their potential for uprising.

Revolutionary Influence on Social Perception

• The French Revolution opened up possibilities for political subversion by lower classes, creating anxiety among elites about social unrest.

• Historical precedents exist for popular uprisings; however, the revolution made such scenarios more plausible and alarming for those in power.

The Political and Social Threats of the 19th Century

The Perception of Populace as a Threat

• The elites viewed the emergence of the populace in politics as an unacceptable threat, leading to a need for more horrific descriptions of this potential danger.

• Throughout the 19th century, revolutions and insurrections were characterized by political observers as overflow from the lower classes, particularly evident during events like the Paris Commune.

• Observers described these uprisings using derogatory terms, portraying them as manifestations of societal decay and moral failure. This sentiment was not limited to conservatives but also echoed among leftist thinkers like Marx and Engels.

Economic Transformation and Class Dynamics

• The industrialization of Western society created new social categories, notably the proletariat, which redefined traditional notions of laborers. This transformation had profound social implications.

• The concept of "popérisme" emerged, distinguishing it from mere poverty; it represented a moral scandal where individuals worked yet could not sustain themselves due to economic conditions.

• Industrial realities led to negative perceptions of certain groups within society, such as Irish workers or those living in urban slums, who were often depicted in dehumanizing terms.

Religious Thought Evolution

• Mid-19th century religious thought saw a shift towards a more benevolent Catholic theology that emphasized salvation over condemnation, reflecting broader societal changes.

• There was an increase in discussions about social hells rather than traditional concepts of hellfire, indicating a secularization of religious language that connected with real-world issues faced by marginalized populations.

Colonial Expansion and Its Implications

• A significant wave of colonial expansion began around the 1830s and continued into the late 19th century, impacting how societies perceived foreign populations compared to their own lower classes.

• Similarities arose between representations of indigenous peoples in colonies and depictions of lower-class citizens in Western cities; both were often framed negatively within societal discourse on civilization versus barbarism.

Exploration of Urban Underworlds and Cultural Perceptions

The Concept of the Urban Underworld

• The exploration of urban underworlds often reflects societal perceptions, particularly in how new "savages" are depicted. This imagery is closely tied to cultural narratives surrounding crime and poverty.

• Historical references include the term "thug," linked to the stranglers of Cali, illustrating how language shapes our understanding of urban violence and criminality across cultures.

Literature's Role in Depicting Urban Life

• General Booth's 1890 publication, In Darkest England, draws parallels with Henry Stanley’s In Darkest Africa, highlighting a trend where urban poverty is likened to colonial narratives.

• The 19th century marked a shift towards mass culture, with works like Les Mystères de Paris reflecting an increasing interest in the lives of those in society's margins.

Mass Culture and Its Impact

• The rise of mass culture during this period aimed at reaching broader audiences, exploiting themes from urban underbelly experiences that resonate even today.

• This cultural phenomenon reassembled existing elements into new contexts, particularly within industrialized Europe, coining terms like "bafon" (slum).

Urban Phobia and Societal Reflections

• A discussion on urban phobia emerges, especially regarding health concerns associated with city life during the late 19th century. Cities were seen as detrimental to both physical and mental well-being.

• It is noted that slums are fundamentally urban; rural areas may experience hardship but do not embody the same concept as urban slums.

Historical Context and Cultural Narratives

• The notion of cities being associated with evil has deep historical roots in Judeo-Christian thought. Most cities symbolize moral decay except for Jerusalem.

• By 1840, Paris faced significant overpopulation issues leading to what historians termed an "urban crisis," further fueling negative perceptions about city life.

Questions on Geographic Scope and Technological Influence

• Inquiry arises about whether discussions around slums were limited to Paris or if other cities like Bordeaux or Lyon were included in literary depictions.

• There is curiosity about potential correlations between gas lighting advancements in affluent areas versus its absence in poorer neighborhoods, suggesting political implications behind such disparities.

Literary Reflections on Urban Life

The Context of English Literature and Urban Mysteries

• Discussion on the timeline of English literature, particularly referencing Dickens, questioning whether it predates or follows Eugène Sue's works.

• Mention of various urban mysteries in French cities like Paris, Lyon, Nantes, and Bordeaux; highlights the unique resistance of Dijon to these literary trends.

Gas Lighting and Its Symbolism

• Acknowledgment that gas lighting began spreading in Paris around 1830-1840; its significance in illuminating urban life is emphasized.

• The historian's perspective on sources for studying urban underbelly; all sources are exogenous, coming from elites rather than originating within the lower classes.

The Relationship Between Light and Social Realities

• Exploration of how illumination allows for the discovery of urban poverty while leaving parts of the city shrouded in darkness.

• Clarification that Dickens was a contemporary writer whose major works emerged during the same period as discussed (1830s to 1850s).

Industrialization and Literary Development

• Recognition that industrialization occurred earlier in England but literature only began addressing social realities significantly by the late 1830s due to shifts towards realism.

• Assertion that social novels did not emerge until after this period; prior attempts were merely precursors without substantial impact.

Modern Economic Challenges

• Commentary on modern pauperism and globalization; concerns about people being unable to sustain themselves through work are raised.

• Discussion about how increased working hours can lead to diminished productivity or superficial engagement with work.

Geographic Insights into Parisian Underbelly

• Inquiry into a geographical overview of Paris’s lower districts during 1830–1840 is posed by an audience member.

• Description begins with central areas like Cité and Maubert as focal points for understanding urban poverty dynamics.

Urban Geography: Key Locations

• Identification of significant locations such as Monfucon, which served multiple functions including execution sites and waste disposal areas.

• Notable mention of peripheral barriers typical in cities reflecting socio-economic divides; parallels drawn with other global cities like London and New York.

The Concept of Urban "Basfonds" in Paris

The Golden Age of Paris

• The discussion begins with the notion of Paris during the Belle Époque (1900), identified as a unique urban golden age, which is significant for those interested in historical periods of prosperity.

Existence and Nature of "Basfonds"

• A critical point raised is that "basfonds" (underclass or slums) may not exist as tangible entities but rather as constructs or fantasies within societal imagination.

• While acknowledging the presence of poverty, crime, and prostitution, the speaker argues against the idea that these groups share commonalities such as language or organization, suggesting this perception is largely imaginary.

Construction by State

• It is noted that certain "basfonds" have been artificially constructed by state actions, such as gathering criminals and marginalized individuals in specific locations like Cayenne's penal colony or Blackwell Island in New York.

• These constructions create an illusion of a chaotic underworld beneath society, which can have real-world implications despite limited sources documenting their existence.

Radicalism and Historical Context

• The conversation shifts to the Paris Commune, highlighting its radical members who were often portrayed negatively by Versailles propaganda.

• The speaker expresses admiration for communards—workers, intellectuals, artists—who were misrepresented historically as violent figures.

Colonialism and Its Justifications

• A question arises regarding colonial motivations; it was often framed as a mission to bring civilization to perceived savages. This reflects a complex mix of noble intentions alongside more exploitative motives.

• There’s acknowledgment that while some colonizers aimed to improve conditions abroad, others had less altruistic reasons for their actions.

Religious Influence on Social Reform

• The role of religious organizations in addressing social issues within "basfonds" is discussed. Many Protestant churches played crucial roles in reform efforts during the late 19th century.

• Additionally, early sociological studies from institutions like Chicago University contributed significantly to understanding deviance and social issues related to urban poverty.

Motivations Behind the Creation of Educational Institutions

Philanthropic and Religious Influences

• The motivations for establishing institutions like the University of Chicago stem from philanthropic and religious roots, particularly from the Baptist Church.

• Key figures in philanthropy and church representatives played significant roles in this educational development, especially within Protestant reformist circles.

Cultural Representations of Poverty

• There are contrasting depictions of poverty; some portray it as a subject for exploitation or exoticism rather than genuine concern.

• This perspective often leads to a superficial engagement with social issues, where individuals seek out experiences with the poor only to return to their privileged lives feeling better about themselves.

The Concept of 'Basfonds' and Its Evolution

Historical Context

• The discussion references Balzac's portrayal of 'basfonds' (the underbelly of society) which is linked to themes of antisemitism and cultural ignorance.

• The notion that mass culture can lead to a rejection of deeper understanding is highlighted, suggesting a cyclical pattern in societal attitudes towards poverty.

Modern Parallels

• A question arises regarding whether contemporary media, particularly on the internet, has created a new form of 'basfonds', characterized by conspiracy theories and misinformation.

• This modern iteration reflects an extreme danger as it mobilizes reactionary forces within society.

Imaginary Constructs Surrounding Poverty

Shifts in Perception

• The speaker notes that the imagery associated with 'basfonds' has evolved significantly since its peak around 1800, becoming less relevant by the late 20th century due to various political and social changes.

• Despite these shifts, remnants of this imagery persist and have adapted into new contexts such as the dark web or popular media forms like cinema and comics.

Cultural Migration

• The characteristics associated with historical 'basfonds', including conspiratorial thinking, have migrated into contemporary discourse through various channels including digital platforms.

Literary Exploration: Les Mystères de Paris

Authorial Intentions

• Two narratives exist regarding why Eugène Sue wrote "Les Mystères de Paris": one suggests he was converted to socialism before writing; another posits he sought material for his novel after experiencing poverty firsthand during dinner invitations.

Financial Motivations

• Sue faced financial ruin in 1839 which prompted him to propose writing about Parisian life; despite initial rejection from publishers, he pursued this idea leading to his eventual success with "Les Mystères de Paris".

Eugène Sue's Transformation into a Socialist

The Influence of Correspondence on Sue's Ideology

• Eugène Sue receives letters from admirers, expressing appreciation for his work and suggesting he is developing a social consciousness that aligns with socialism.

• In response to reader feedback, Sue revises his writings to better depict the realities of life, indicating an evolving relationship with his audience and a commitment to social issues.

Radical Shift in Thought

• Sue undergoes a significant transformation towards social thought, becoming increasingly engaged in political activism during the revolutionary period of 1848.

• His commitment leads him to become a deputy; however, this engagement comes at great personal cost, culminating in exile following Louis Napoleon Bonaparte's coup d'état.

The Complexity of Conversion

• The sincerity of Sue’s conversion to socialism is debated; it appears more as an evolution influenced by external realities rather than a premeditated shift.