CPS Lecture: Martine Sauret

Abstract

Inserted in the second book of the’’Grands voyages’’ published between 1591 and 1598 by Theodore de Bry, the exploration of  Laudonniere’s attempt in 1564-1565 to establish a Huguenot settlement in Florida  and the illustrations by Jacques le Moyne de Morgues, a French member of the expedition are copiously re-narrated and abundantly illustrated by Theodore de Bry. On one hand, the French text and images reflect scientific, historical, and ethnological ambition in the observation of the customs of the native populations and the French soldiers. On the other hand, the diary and the illustrations reflect contradictions, constant distortions about Europe and Native Americans. The distortions seem to create an aesthetic of opposition in front of the different rhythms of the explorations. It is also intended to disturb the reader, disrupt his tranquility and spiritual complacency. By manipulating the forms of graphic intoxication, De Bry tries to create a real movement by exposing the limits of their representations.

About the speaker

Dr. Martine Sauret received her Ph.D. In June 1991 at the University of Minnesota and taught at Western Michigan University and Macalester College as an Associate Professor. She studies the relations of writing and space in cartography, art and literature. Her latest book Errances et Cohérences dans les anamorphoses et les trompe-l’oeil en France: enjeux et pouvoirs de 1470-1600 is published by Peter Lang International and will appear in 2022.