I. About France A. Background info
1. Location - Most people associate French culture with Paris, which is a center of fashion, cuisine, art and architecture, but life outside of the City of Lights is very different and varies by region. Historically, the French culture was influenced by Celtic and Gallo-Roman cultures as well as the Franks, a Germanic tribe. France was initially defined as the western area of Germany known as Rhineland but it later came to refer to a territory that was known as Gaul during the Iron Age and Roman era.
2. Population – Today, it is made up of nearly 66 million people, July 2013, “The World Factbook (France)”, CIA
3. Religious views – around 85% of which are Roman Catholic, “The World Factbook (France)”,
France is also the 5th largest market by value in the world, and its music industry has produced many internationally renowned artists, especially in the nouvelle chanson and electronic music such as Daft Punk and Justice.
3. Art – Art is a big part of French culture and often goes well along with a glass of wine. French art typically includes prehistoric art, Pre-Romanesque art, Romanesque art, Gothic art, and Celtic art.
E. Fashion
1. France is one of the leading countries in fashion industry, alongside USA, Italy, the UK, and many others. Fashion has always been an important part of the country's cultural life and society, and French are well known for their attention of dressing-up well.
V. Overview of Cultural Differences (US v. France)
A. Food - The French take their food very seriously. Food is to be enjoyed and savored and one tends to linger over a meal as opposed to eat as quickly as possible.
B. Cultural Influence of History - When visiting France, you are immediately surrounded by a history that is rich and affects the culture in even the minutest facets. To the American, whose country is only a few hundred years old, French history is massive. Nearly everywhere you go you will see castles and other historical attractions.
C. Art Appreciation - the entire culture appreciates the fine arts and reveres France as the birthplace of many renowned artists. The government spends money on making sure that French artistry is promoted and supported in all