The Battle of the Books

The Battle of the Books was a humorous and satirical contest in 1704 between writers and scholars debating the superiority of classical versus contemporary literature. It was organized by French intellectuals to defend traditional, ancient texts against newer, popular works, highlighting the importance of literary knowledge and critical thinking. The event was part of a broader conversation about the value of different kinds of knowledge and the role of literature in society. Today, it’s often remembered as a witty reminder of intellectual rivalry and the enduring debate over the value of established versus new ideas.