Religion of the French. Etiquette and culture of France Religion of France in the 19th century

France for centuries was an active Catholic state, Catholicism was the state religion, and the Gentiles, like the Huguenots (Protestants), were dealt with bloodily. The papacy constantly looked to the French kings as the most powerful Catholics in the world, initiating crusades together. Moreover, the XIV century went down in history as the time of the so-called Avignon captivity of the popes, when the heirs of St. Peter sat not in Rome, but in French Avignon. But these times and events have sunk into oblivion, and today France is a secular state where religion is clearly separated from politics. Freedom of belief is considered an unshakable constitutional right, although, at the same time, some religious organizations at the state level are recognized as cults.

So, the most numerous religion in France is Christianity of the Catholic type. More than 75% consider themselves Catholics, but at the same time, much less actually regularly visit temples and perform all the rites.

The contemporary French Catholic Church is far from being the retrograde, frigid and conservative institution it was in the 17th century.

In addition to being truly liberal and tolerant of other faiths, the Catholic Church has become more flexible. For example, in 1981, Jean Mary Lustiger, who came from a Jewish family, was elected Archbishop of Paris, but converted to Catholicism when he was still 14 years old.

From the old days of the rise and flourishing of the Catholic Church in France, numerous cathedrals, churches and baptisteries remain today. They are truly not just houses for prayer, but real masterpieces of architectural and decorative art. The beauty of French cathedrals was described by many world writers, among them - Victor Hugo with the famous "Notre Dame Cathedral".

Another popular branch of Christianity in France is Protestantism. Most of the followers of Martin Luther live in the southeastern part of the Massif Central, near the Jura and Alsace mountains in northern France. Moreover, despite the initial aggressiveness of French Catholics towards Protestants in the 16th century, ironically, it was this country that became the birthplace of one of the most famous Protestants, the pastor, after whom an entire trend in Protestantism was named - John Calvin.

He was born in 1509 in the lands of northern France, although his main and most active period of life was spent in Geneva.

In addition to Christianity, France today has a large Muslim community. Islam today has become the second largest religion in all of Europe. Specifically, in France today there are close to 5 million Muslims, which is growing rapidly. In fact, most of the French Muslims arrived in the country from North Africa.

The third large religious community is the Jews. They have lived in France since Roman times, but during the persecution of the Gentiles and during the years of the Inquisition, they were massively expelled from the country.

Only in 1790 did the first Jews of French origin receive citizenship, although for many years there was anti-Semitism and infringement of the Jews in the society of the country.

France has long been famous as a country of refined and refined manners, elegance and a special skill, or rather, the art of living.

The rules of French etiquette have many nuances that are sometimes difficult for an uninitiated person to grasp. After all, the traditions of another country can, at times, cause misunderstanding and inability to quickly adapt to the situation.

We offer you a short guide on how it is done in France, where the feast is part of the culture. It will tell you how to behave in order to avoid possible oddities visiting the French.

Rule #1: Be on time

The French are very sensitive to the issue of being late, despite the fact that they themselves often sin with them. Remember - if you are invited to visit France, the paradoxical rule that it is indecent to come to the feast on time does not apply here. The hostess of the house will never allow herself, at the hour appointed for the arrival of guests, to run around the apartment in a dressing gown and curlers, finishing the Russian olive. If the time is indicated to you, it means that by this time the champagne is chilled, and the oysters are open, and by this time they are waiting for you! A delay of 10-15 minutes is considered decent, nothing more.

Rule #2: Greetings

When greeting, do not forget to add Madame, Monsieur or, if the status of your relationship allows it, the name of the person you are addressing. A typical mistake that our compatriots make, sincerely wanting to do something nice, is adding the name of the interlocutor to the address. Just as we do not say: "Madam Natalia", so the phrase: "Madame Natalie" for the French ear will sound at least strange.

Be prepared for the fact that in France it is customary to kiss with close acquaintances, but this is not a kiss in our understanding, but just a light touch of the cheek on the cheek. This tradition has been around for many years, and you should not try to change it. A sign of whether the guests will exchange kisses with each other or confine themselves to a handshake is usually given by the hosts by personal example.

Rule #3: About ladies and dresses

The dress code plays a big role in French etiquette. In France, they will never wear a business suit for a formal meal or an evening long dress for a business dinner. The French are convinced that it is better to refrain from overly sexy, open or extravagant dressing if you are not sure about the status of the event, because only a woman dressed “out of place” can be worse than a poorly dressed woman. Another unspoken, but very important rule: you should not dress more luxuriously than the mistress of the house.
The hosts will inform you in advance about the nature of the feast, as well as what kind of audience will attend it, and the invitation usually indicates what dress code is expected. Therefore, it will be easy for you to navigate.

Rule number 4: About gentlemen and gallantry

There is no place for feminism in "table" matters, especially among the French! Men in such situations should remain men: fill your glass, move your chair, give you a hand - their knightly duty, but you are a true lady who graciously allows you to take care of yourself and smiles sweetly. Believe me, this is not a conservative "naphthalene", but an etiquette that is followed all over the world.

Rule number 5: About shoes: to be or not to be, to take off your shoes or not?

The question is by no means idle, but truly akin to Hamlet's. Very often, Russian guests sin with the "Soviet rules of etiquette." Do not ask the owners of the house for slippers, assuring them that you have an absolute absence of fungal diseases. You will not be understood. Imagine how ridiculous you will look in a beautiful dress and slippers borrowed from the hostess, and your spouse in a suit, tie and socks because there were no slippers of his size 46. Leave the care of the cleanliness of the floor to the mistress of the house: in France it is customary to wear shoes at home - this is not Japan.

Rule #6: At the table

In France, you will not see a table set like in Russia: all kinds of salads, cuts of meat, fish, cheese, and then the first, second and compote. You will not be put on the table all types of alcohol at the same time.

Before you are invited to the table, you will be offered an aperitif of your choice: Champagne, whiskey, wine or soft drink. The hostess of the house will also take an interest in your taste preferences in advance in order to avoid embarrassment (religion, allergies, etc.).

Seating guests

Another important point that often confuses our compatriots is that you will be invited to the table and the hosts will tell you where and with whom you will sit. Often couples are seated so that newcomers to the campaign also have the opportunity to communicate, and gentlemen should alternate with ladies. The gentleman takes care of the lady throughout the evening. Don't be scared, this is not a swingers club and adultery will not follow.

Cutlery

In fact, there is nothing intimidating about the amount of cutlery that will be waiting for you on the table. Dishes will be served to you in the order provided by the hostess. Therefore, a hint: the first dish that you are offered to taste, you can safely eat with appliances lying on the farthest edge from the plate (knife on the right, fork on the left). A knife and fork will also be taken along with the used plate. To taste a new dish, you take the next fork and knife according to the same principle.

1. hot plate
2. snack plate
3. Bread plate
4. snack fork
5. fish fork
6. Table fork
7. Table-knife
8. fish knife
9. snack knife
10. Tablespoon
11. butter knife
12. Dessert spoon
13. dessert fork
14. Water glass
15. White wine glass
16. Red wine glass

Glasses and drinks

You may also be frightened by the number of wine glasses, but do not worry - this is the concern of the owners of the house. For dinner, they can choose one drink, then everything is simple: the host will pour it into the right glasses for you, depending on whether it will be Burgundy wine, Bordeaux or just water. If the wines change during the course of the dinner depending on the dishes served, you will be offered either to finish the rest in your glass before filling it with wine of a different variety, or they will give you a new clean one. Please, do not resist that they say it will do, they say, I'm not pretentious. This can offend the hosts: the French carefully choose wine for each dish, there are no accidents here, and you, as a true connoisseur, should feel the bouquet of wine. And even if you are still a “beginner oenologist”, anyway, please your hosts and admire the excellent selection of drinks.

Rule #7: Table Talk

The hardest thing, you say? Yes and no. There is one very simple rule: to talk only about what is pleasant to the neighbors on the table. Weather and sports are a win-win option for good etiquette, which has helped more than one celebration. You should not talk about illness, death, physiology, tell the hostess how you prepare treats, and especially talk about people who are not present at the table. And do not forget - if you were asked a question, even a personal one, they do not expect a forty-minute confession from you!

Rule #8: Time doesn't wait

Dessert in France is served on its own, without tea and coffee. Before dessert, you may be offered a cheese plate. Hot drinks are offered a little later, and then a digestif is served: Calvados, cognac, armagnac, they offer to drink a glass, so that everything eaten subsides as it should. And this is the first bell to the fact that it would be time and honor to know.

That, in fact, is all. Enjoy your tasting - French rules of etiquette do not recommend wishing you a pleasant appetite, considering it not subtle enough - and no less pleasant communication!

French traditions

The French love traditions, etiquette, fashion, lifestyle, relationships with family, colleagues and friends originate in French traditions. If the Frenchman indignantly dismisses the requirements and instructions (“no smoking”, no “parking”), then compliance with many written and unwritten rules is almost mandatory.

Everything in the life of a Frenchman should be comme il faut (that is, done as it should be). Even during summer holidays, in a campsite or a tent city, a Frenchman will spend a couple of hours on his morning toilet, as if he were going to a social event, and not a walk with a backpack around the neighborhood. French women will even cook a three-course dinner on a fire, serve it on a white tablecloth with a full serving, put the wine to cool in a bucket with ice, and do not forget about the obligatory ingredients of the meal - cheeses and sauce.

French etiquette lessons

The French family occupies a decisive place in life. Relatives prefer to settle in the neighborhood, and regularly gather for Sunday family dinners. The ban on participation in a family dinner borders on unjustified cruelty. Common councils traditional for French families are held with the participation of all generations.

The idea of ​​having pets, just like that, for pleasure, did not take root in the minds of the French. The animal must perform useful functions or serve as food in the future. Even in the cities, the French mostly breed sheepdogs (useful for protecting the home) or poodles (prestigious, which means it’s still useful).

In France, it is not customary to comb your hair in public places or touch up your make-up; a Frenchman will not leave the house without a jacket, no matter how hot it is on the street.

Handshakes at the meeting should be exchanged with all those present. At the same time, it is necessary to remember who you already greeted, shaking hands again is a gross violation of the rules of etiquette. It is customary for the French to say hello when you enter a cafe or shop, and say goodbye when you leave.

Special unwritten rules govern the use of "you" (toi) and "you" (vous). They say that in some French families, spouses do not “poke” each other throughout their lives.

French etiquette.

French etiquette reflects the very culture of France. It's no secret that the French have been trendsetters and trendsetters for centuries. It is in this country that beauty enjoys the greatest honor and recognition. The French appreciate beauty in everything: in the architecture of cities, in art, in women, in various ceremonies and rituals, in food and other pleasures.

The culture of France has given rise to a nation that is quite liberated in communication, famous for its ease and elegance of manners. According to French etiquette, the manifestation of individualism, as well as a demonstration of indifference to public opinion, is considered the norm. Of course, it is considered right to ignore the opinions of others only when the Frenchman is absolutely sure that he is right in the current situation.

The inhabitants of France throughout history have shown free-thinking. Real Frenchmen are not guided in life by all sorts of formalities, instructions, patterns. Authorities in this country are also not honored.

The French are an emotional nation, rather noisy and temperamental. Therefore, French etiquette allows you to express feelings and emotions through speech, gestures and facial expressions.

The French like to discuss something or someone, make comments, but they cannot stand criticism in their address. All this is again due to the influence of the culture of France and the increased emotionality of the inhabitants of this country.

However, the idea of ​​the French as irresponsible, careless and undisciplined people will be wrong. In the business sphere, they behave impeccably.

Features of business communication with partners.

The French, whose homeland is considered the legislator in business protocol and etiquette, are very gallant, refined, strive to adhere to etiquette, while being relaxed and open to interlocutors. They greatly value intelligence, the ability to express themselves, to accurately formulate the terms of contracts and transactions. The feeling of satisfaction among the French causes an interest in their culture and language (at the same time, poor knowledge of the French language is perceived with annoyance). In business relationships, personal connections are valued. Many important decisions are made at business receptions (breakfasts, dinners, cocktails, etc.).

When negotiating, the French try to avoid official discussions of issues "one on one" and strive to maintain their independence. At the same time, their behavior can change dramatically depending on who they discuss the problem with. The French pay great attention to preliminary agreements. They like to thoroughly study all aspects and consequences of incoming proposals, so negotiations with them take place at a much slower pace. Any attempt to speed up negotiations can only harm the cause. When discussing issues, French arguments traditionally focus on logical evidence. They are quite tough in negotiations and, as a rule, do not have a “spare” position. French partners may interrupt the interlocutor to make critical remarks or counterarguments, but they are not inclined to bargain. Compared to Americans, they are less free and independent in making the final decision. The signed contracts are extremely correct and do not allow discrepancies. The French have a negative attitude towards compromises and prefer to use French as the official language of negotiations.

National features of the French man.

Etiquette in France is one of the main components of national prestige. Therefore, all the French observe the rules of good manners, in any life situation they demonstrate their politeness and gallantry.

The last quality is most often shown by the strong half of France in relation to the fair sex. It is the French who are recognized as the most gallant gentlemen in the world. By the way, they own the authorship of one of the wisest rules: "When a woman is wrong, you must ask her for forgiveness."

In France, great importance is attached to communication etiquette, the ability to speak correctly and beautifully.

Returning to the gallant French men, it should be noted that they are ready for the most unexpected and incredible deeds for the sake of their loved ones. Therefore, the relationship in France between two lovers throughout their entire length is the same as the Russian “candy-bouquet period”. Easy beautiful relationships in this country last as long as love is alive. When the feeling fades, the two part peacefully, civilized. Thus, divorces are common and absolutely not shameful in France. Even the divorce of a person from the political sphere in this country, unlike in all other states, will not affect the voters' confidence in him.

What national features of the French man amaze us Russians?

The first is, of course, their courtesy. French men are very courteous, sweet and courteous in conversation, they listen attentively to the interlocutor. "Sorry" is a favorite word of the French, and you hear it everywhere: in a store, transport, at work, at home, etc. And at the same time, I rarely saw a man helping a woman put on a coat or giving a hand to a woman getting out of the transport. Maybe this is the consequences of the feminism of French women? But, nevertheless, men from France cannot be denied gallantry.

The second is their attitude towards alcohol. In French families, it is customary to drink wine almost every day during dinner. But to be honest, I have not seen anywhere in families that they drink wine on weekdays. Yes, and on holidays they don’t really drink wine - for example, a glass of another wine and that’s it, none of the men get completely drunk. The French begin to taste wine from early childhood. Children can taste wine with their parents and are present at feasts with adults. Then the rules for serving wine are already known, what and with what wine is drunk, they are taught to feel the taste and aroma of wine. Still, it is important to instill a culture of drinking from childhood.

The third is the attitude towards women. French men are very romantic. When they are in love, then for a woman it is just heaven. They will surround you with such attention, helpfulness and care that it is simply impossible to resist them. And even the stingy French (and they all are) become generous and magnanimous. But, nevertheless, they always keep control and God forbid they find out about some of your other hobbies with men (although they admit it)! Then they become unrestrained and quickly lose interest.

The fourth is that modern French people are highly sensitive to everything national - this is one of the distinguishing features of their national character. They even had a law at one time that only 20 percent of foreign music could be played on the radio.

And at the same time, many French people are now marrying foreign women, because French women are much more difficult to live with, they are more demanding, capricious and quarrelsome.

Fifth, is that the French man is prudent and stingy. On the other hand, we Russians are not used to counting everything, and if we start to relax, then, as they say, “since such a booze has gone, cut the last cucumber!”. The French don't have it. They will calculate everything and may deny themselves something, but they will save money and will not borrow. It is not even customary to borrow money from parents here. Previously, after the age of 18, young people left their homes and lived independently, but recently, with the growth of the crisis and unemployment, children remain to live with their parents.

Sixth, it is that in business life for the French, the main thing is personal connections and acquaintances. Far from the best feature, why it is difficult to start a business in France.

French men are extreme individualists, they love originality and for the sake of posture, brilliance and personal glory, they can sacrifice a lot.

You can, of course, bring many more national features of French men, but I consider these to be more noticeable and catchy.

These are the men from France. I really like one expression and it helps everyone in life - a person who is next to you is neither better nor worse, he is just different.

In today's France, religion, like the French Church, has been publicly split off from state authorities since 1905. The only exceptions are the territories of Alsace and Moselle, which were annexed after the division of spheres of influence.

French and religion

Discussing one's religious views or imposing them on anyone in France is not accepted: the topic of religion is not raised either in educational institutions, or in offices, or in ministries. Since 2004, religious French have been officially banned from wearing church symbols, and since 2011, from praying on the street.

Prayer places are visited by a few (although most citizens sympathize with Catholics), and numerous temples, abbeys, cathedrals and monasteries are officially recognized as public property. However, the French can hardly be called a nation of atheists - representatives of various religious associations (Muslims, Protestants, Jews) peacefully coexist here. The main religion in France is Catholicism.

About believers in France (religion in percentage) in detail

According to the results of sociological studies conducted in 2015, representatives of various religions in France were distributed as follows:

• 84% of religious French were Catholics. In 2009, 64% of believers professed Catholicism, and in 1972 - 87%. According to information published on the Internet, the beginning of the new century in France was marked by the destruction of religious Christian buildings that were in disrepair. Currently, about forty thousand French Catholic churches are active.
• 4.5% of believers living in France, according to data collected in 2015, practice Islam. As of 2007, the number of Muslims was estimated at 4%, and by 2007, 7.5%. It is known that by 2000 more than one and a half thousand mosques were built in France, and by 2012 their number had increased to two and a half thousand.
• 1.5% of devout French are Protestants (Huguenots).
• 1.3% of the devout inhabitants of the country are Jews.

Will France become a Muslim country?

Some users of the Global Network are seriously concerned about this issue. Their fears regarding the main religion of France (most of the French, as mentioned above, profess Catholicism) are supported by irrefutable facts.

So, for example, according to statistics for 2011, the number of Catholic churches erected and restored by that time was 20 buildings, which is almost eight times less than the number of mosques built or under design as of today (in total - about 150 cult buildings).

It is also known that many French Muslims are outraged by the small number of religious buildings. This was announced to the public in 2011 by Islamist Dalil Boubaker, who appealed to the French authorities to increase the number of mosques in France to four thousand.

The birth of Christianity

In the Middle Ages, Christianity was the main and only religion of France. In the Middle Ages, when the first French kings needed constant protection from their own vassals, representatives of the clergy, whose lands were a tasty morsel for local feudal lords, sided with the rulers appointed "by the grace of God", and the foundations of Christianity (in particular, the rejection of material blessings) were their main tool.

The search for allies "brought" the French kings even to distant Kyiv: as you know, the wife of one of the offspring of the Capetian dynasty - Henry the First, was the Kiev princess Anna, the daughter of Yaroslav the Wise.

Religion of France in the 16th-17th centuries (the era of the ideas of the Reformation)

When Luther's reform ideas were just beginning to penetrate France (this happened at the beginning of the 16th century), all devout French professed Catholicism, cruelly persecuting all dissident compatriots without exception. A biased attitude towards foreign religions was fueled by the hostility of the French king Francis I to the German emperor Charles: two powerful states were at war for a long time.

Historians call the father of the Reformation in France the mathematician and philosopher from Etauples Jacques Lefebvre, who in 1523 translated into his native language and published the New Testament. The French, after reading the translated edition, noted the existence of obvious discrepancies between the Biblical truths and the foundations of Catholicism, and the representatives of the clergy could not explain the reasons forcing them to act in this way and not otherwise.

The French Huguenots were not the only Protestants: in Germany, their protest was shared by the Lutherans, in England by the Puritans, and in Scotland by the Covenanters.

The French Huguenots fully experienced the cruelty of the representatives of the religious majority: many families who joined the Protestants were displaced, burned or sent to hard labor.

French religious art of the 20th century

In the 20th century, the religion of France, glorified in the works of artists, sculptors, publicists and poets, becomes a link between representatives of the clergy and society.

The first significant exhibitions of Christian art took place in 1915 (the venue is the Payan Terrace), 1921 (the Marsan Pavilion) and in 1932 (the Gallier Museum in Paris).

The Catholic faith, as the main religion of France, was actively “promoted” through the paintings of famous artists (Chagall, Denis, Derain and others), as well as the works of the French philosopher Jacques Maritain - the author of Antimodern (published in 1922) and Integral Humanism (1936). year of publication) - famous for his futile attempts to reconcile science and religion.

The theme of Catholic mysticism, dressed in poetry, “impregnated” the works of some writers who worked in the late 19th and early 20th centuries: for example, the playwright Paul Claudel and the novelist Georges Bernanos.

Some historians call the 20-30 years of the last century the heyday of church art: the religious theme “migrated” from paintings and books to wall carpets and stained-glass windows.

Every tourist dreams. This is one of the most romantic countries in the world, which is also considered a trendsetter of high fashion and secular etiquette.

The rules of etiquette began to be established in the country during the time of the monarch Louis XIV, whose reign is called the Golden Age. It was he who insisted on the recognition of generally accepted rules of conduct in society and at court. And in order for the subjects and guests of the palace to quickly get used to the new order, it was decided to distribute special cards with rules.

Even a new position appeared - the master of ceremonies, who monitored the strict observance of the established routine.

The term "etiquette" was introduced, meaning the rules of behavior for people in society. Gradually, new concepts and terms began to emerge. In Russian, there are many etiquette words borrowed from French. For example, a gallant (from the French “galant”) is a person who shows refinement and courtesy.

is a reflection of the culture of the country, the pride of the nation, a feature of the local mentality. To tourists who come from afar, local residents may seem too correct. It may be strange, but the French strictly follow the rules of good manners from birth.

Who hasn't heard the phrase "dress French chic"? She appeared out of nowhere. Dressing in French style, you choose elegance, simplicity, bordering on luxury, and beauty. It is on the appearance in the first place that the French pay attention. Appearance should be perfect, wherever you are: at a social event, at a romantic dinner, in.

Etiquette in France requires a dress code. It is unacceptable to go out to people in untidy, unironed clothes. It is recommended to be guided by the practical rules for choosing shoes. It should fit the outfit and be appropriate for a particular situation. Particular attention is paid to the hairstyle.

Various accessories, scarves, hats, watches will help to complete the image. In addition, this is a sign that the person approached the choice of outfit with all responsibility. The style of clothing should be appropriate for the specific situation.

French women are not allowed to fix their makeup / hair in public places. This is considered a sign of bad taste. It is unforgivable for a man to appear in public without a jacket.

It is not for nothing that the French are considered professionals in fashion and owners of impeccable taste. They are great at emphasizing their own individuality through clothing.

Attitude towards language

Despite the fact that during the reign of monarchs, the knowledge of several foreign languages ​​​​was considered commendable, today's young people do not speak English well. They have a highly developed sense of patriotism, so it is customary to speak exclusively in their native language. Therefore, if there is a desire to find loyal friends among the French, it makes sense to learn their language.

The French are a proud nation that respects the traditions of their state. Surprisingly, at the state level, it was once decided to impose a limit on the number of foreign musical compositions on the air of radio stations. At present, the law has lost its force, but the French still have a feeling of slight contempt while listening to foreign music. But they listen to the songs of French pop singers with hope.

Attitude towards family and marriage

The people of France are very sensitive to family values ​​and try to maintain family ties. This is manifested at least in the fact that close people prefer to live close to each other. This allows us to see each other and communicate more often. Sunday is considered a day of family gatherings.

Etiquette in France prescribes on this day to lay a large table at which family members of different generations gather. Following this tradition is a great opportunity to strengthen family ties with members of the family and share news from your life.

The French prefer to have dinner no earlier than 19 hours. During the meal, it is customary to talk on various topics. The main thing is that the conversation should be interesting and lively. Toasts, like chokanya, are not welcomed by the French. It is also not necessary to change shoes or take off shoes at a party.

France is one of those countries whose inhabitants have given up keeping pets for the sake of having fun. Citizens believe that animals should appear in the house for the sake of something and be useful. For example, it is customary to acquire dogs to emphasize the prestige of the house. Also, four-legged friends are considered excellent guards.

French food is exquisite and amazing. In every corner of this unique country you can find real masterpieces of culinary art. Southerners prefer dishes with "pointy", as well as with an abundance of onions and garlic. Residents of coastal zones are delighted with. The French living in the north will be happy to treat visitors with cabbage and pork. They borrowed these eating habits from the inhabitants.

In France, great importance is given to greens and vegetables. Regardless of which region you happen to be in, they are an addition to the main dish. Moreover, while cooking the soup, French women prefer to put whole greens in the pan, and then take them out.

French food etiquette is based on the correct serving of the dish. Everything should look elegant and appetizing. You should not put all the treats on the table, as they like to do. The first drink or dish that increases appetite is served. You can offer guests cold snacks.

Casual conversation and light food will help those gathered at the table to get to know each other better. When the guests feel more relaxed, other dishes are put on the table in turn.

The first is traditionally served with liquid dishes, then they offer to try the second and put a beautifully decorated plate with cheese slices. At the end of the meal, guests are treated to dessert.

By the way, the French are considered excellent winemakers. France occupies one of the leading positions in the world in the production of wine, despite the fact that it is not customary to abuse alcohol here.

A feature of the local mentality is the admission of children, along with adults, to wine tasting. There is nothing paradoxical in this: in France it is considered a national drink and is present on the table not only on holidays, but also on weekdays.

Therefore, it is so important for the French that even children observe french food etiquette and from youth they learned to assimilate the etiquette rules of local cuisine.

Can you smoke in France?

Like many countries in the world, France has an active anti-tobacco policy. Local authorities care about the health of the nation and constantly monitor the problem of smoking. Due to this smoking in France prohibited by law in public places, including restaurants, cafes, and gambling establishments.

This ban forced restaurateurs and those who do not want to lose customers to equip the adjacent territories with open terraces with tables. So you can meet a street cafe specially designated for smokers in France everywhere. Smoking in France allowed on these verandas. Representatives of law enforcement have no questions for visitors to such places.

To have an idea of ​​how it is customary to address interlocutors of French origin, it is worth paying attention to the French.

In this country, males and females can be addressed by using the words "Mr./Monsieur" or "Madam/Madame". These appeals are appropriate in both business and everyday etiquette. You do not need to add a name. The name can be clarified only when a third person is mentioned during the conversation, be sure to add “monsieur / madam” in front of him.

At the entrance to a public institution (bank, bar, restaurant) you must say hello. When leaving, you should say goodbye. When talking with someone, the French usually exchange compliments. This rule must be followed and tourist in france .

The greeting of men is accompanied by a traditional handshake. It is not customary to squeeze the hand strongly - this is a sign of bad taste. In a company, you should shake hands with everyone, but it is also important not to get confused, so as not to be embarrassed by accidentally shaking someone's hand twice.

Kissing is a deep enough topic for discussion. The tradition of kissing a person at a meeting is rooted in the past. This custom originated in the 18th century, during the French Revolution.

It is believed that this ritual (touching the cheeks) helps to blur the boundaries between strata of society. Today, a harmless "smack", accompanied by a light touch on the interlocutor's cheeks, has replaced the words of greeting. But you can’t confuse the cheeks: you should start exclusively with the left.

When performing such an action, it is also recommended to pay attention to the number of “smacks”. The Parisians "kiss" twice, the surrounding residents - four, in the southern regions of the country (Averon, Savoy, Vaucluse) - three. If doubts creep in about the fidelity of the actions taken, it is better to trust a French acquaintance. This will avoid slight misunderstandings.

No tactlessness and familiarity

The French are very scrupulous in matters of etiquette and require certain norms from others. Addressing the interlocutor with “you” or by name is considered a sign of bad manners. When communicating with someone, it is customary to use the words "madame" ("madame") or "monsieur" ("monsieur"). Some French people still treat family members with respect, using only “you”.

There are some topics that should not be raised in a conversation. This applies to the level of income and personal life. A person who breaks a taboo may be considered ignorant and removed from the list of close friends.

The ability to maintain small talk is a reason for pride. The ability to talk about everything is an art. The most common and convenient topics for conversation (especially between unfamiliar people) are the weather. The French like to openly express their emotions, so do not be surprised when interlocutors try to interrupt each other.

This behavior is considered normal. Do not be offended for this by French acquaintances. But that doesn't mean they're bad listeners. And yet, while answering the question, you should not delve into the essence of the topic. This will quickly bore the French and is considered bad form.

Business communication etiquette

Achieving success in the business environment largely depends on networking. It is thanks to personal connections, the ability to build productive relationships with people that you can achieve a lot in business. Much depends on the ability to stay in society, to unobtrusively declare oneself to potential partners during business lunches and receptions. But doing business in this country is not easy.

In order to win over a French businessman, it is worthwhile to turn to the help of an interpreter when conducting serious negotiations. But you should know elementary expressions and everyday phrases. When pronouncing French words, you should try to speak correctly. Every tourist in france must know that the locals do not like people speaking with a specific, incomprehensible accent.

The phrase "Accuracy is the courtesy of kings" is about two hundred years old. But this well-established expression is relevant today. The French appreciate in people accuracy, rationality and the ability to convince, but haste and bargaining are unacceptable for them. You can appease a Frenchman with your excellent knowledge of culture, country, French language. This will put the person at ease.

It is not recommended during important negotiations to immediately go to the heart of the issue. A small introduction should be made. A conversation on an abstract topic will help you tune in to the same wavelength with the interlocutor and mentally prepare for the discussion of a business issue.

In order not to be considered ill-mannered, you should come to a meeting without delay. Otherwise, you can destroy your own reputation, which will take a long time to restore.

An infinite amount of time can be devoted to studying the cultural characteristics of the people of any state. A closer acquaintance with the traditions, habits and customs of a particular country gives rise to a stronger desire to find yourself there and plunge into the atmosphere of the life of the local people.