Spicilège

A lively portrait unfolds of the medieval poet whose verses still echo through centuries. The work begins by situating François Villon in the turbulent world of 15th‑century Paris, tracing his uncertain origins, his upbringing under the guidance of the chapel‑master Guillaume de Villon, and his rapid ascent through the university’s ranks. Readers are introduced to the stark contrasts that shaped him—a poor, wandering soul who nonetheless mastered the art of satire, melancholy, and bold self‑reflection.

Beyond the biographical facts, the book delves into Villon’s unique poetic voice, showing how he blended the moral seriousness of Chartier, the formal rigour of Deschamps, and the raw, often ribald humour of his contemporaries. By weaving together centuries of critical commentary—from Rabelais to modern scholars—it reveals why his “Grand” and “Petit Testament” have fascinated writers across generations. The narrative invites listeners to feel the restless energy of a poet who turned personal hardship into a timeless, resonant chorus.