Introduction and Objectifs | Icons | Activities and External Links

I cons, symbols and the spirit of a nation

The term cultural icon is used both solemnly and casually to describe figures and images that represent the heart and spirit of a given society. For Americans, Uncle Sam, the Stars and Stripes and the music of John Phillip Souza evoke patriotic themes.

In every society, patriotic symbols are transformed to fit the purposes and attitudes of a given time. In France, Marianne has been a national symbol since revolutionary times. Eugène Delacroix's "Liberté Guidant le peuple"(1830), shows Marianne as a common woman at the forefront of the freedom fight during the July Revolution.

In the 20th Century, film stars and other celebrities have been chosen to portray Marianne. In the photo to the left we see Brigitte Bardot as Marianne, symbole de la République Française, as portrayed by the sculptor, Aslan in 1970.

French singing legend, Mireille Mathieu was also sculpted as Marianne, symbole de la République Française. The Millenium model for Marianne was super-model Laetitia Casta.

This official French government site provides the history on the various symbols of the Republic.

Introduction and Objectifs | Icons | Activities and External Links