DENIS (Ferdinand) - Lot 41

DENIS (Ferdinand) Ferdinand Denis Paris, 1798 - Saint-Germain-en-Laye, 1890. Traveler, historian, bibliographer and administrator of the Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève, renowned specialist in Brazil and Portuguese literature. L.A.S. "Ferdinand Denis", Rouen, August 6, 1868; 3 pp. in-8 very dense, important autograph corrections and reworked passages. A long and interesting autograph letter to a correspondent on the subject of his son's academic and administrative situation, in which Ferdinand Denis deploys his entire network of academic relations to promote the young man's future. Written from Rouen, the letter bears witness to Denis' concerns about the law exams and the difficulties encountered by the candidate. The author mentions university deadlines, the possibility of postponement or resubmission, and various interventions with influential figures. In particular, he mentions "Mr. Malouet" and other members of the academic community who might support the approach. The manuscript, abundantly corrected and enriched with marginal additions, reveals a particularly lively work in progress. Denis develops considerations on examinations, recommendations and administrative practices in 19th-century universities. The tone, highly personal and benevolent, shows the great scholar's direct involvement in the steps taken on behalf of his correspondent's son. A very interesting account of the intellectual and academic networks of the Second Empire, combining erudition, scholarly sociability and the mechanisms of academic recommendation. A fine piece of handwriting, very typical of Ferdinand Denis's correspondence. Usual folds, a few erasures and numerous autograph corrections, good condition.