Un voyageur français en Nouvelle-France au XVIIe siècle

This study is an analysis of ten reports („Relations“) written from New France between 1632 and 1641 by Jesuit Father Paul Le Jeune (1591-1664). He was sent out in 1632 at the behest of Richelieu to act as Superior of the small Jesuit community living and working there. In line with Jesuit custom, Le Jeune sent back an annual report to his provincial in Paris outlining the missionary activities undertaken by the fathers and the progress the colony had been making. These reports combine information with propaganda. The present study provides first a biography of Le Jeune and a bibliography of his writings, then goes on to discuss Jesuit relations in general and sketch the situation in France at the time. The literary analysis looks into the main themes addressed by Le Jeune and concludes with a discussion of composition and style. An index and bibliography complete the volume.