The present study had its origins long ago in a doctorate thesis presented at the University of Cambridge. The work has been considerably enlarged in scope, if not in bulk, but has always been conceived as a whole. Nicole's thought is, in any case, remarkably coherent. I make use of articles of mine published in French Studies for April 1960 and July 1967, and my thanks are due to the General Editor of that journal for permission to do so. lowe a great debt of gratitude to Dr M. G. Wallas, who guided my researches in the early years. The penetration and lucidity of her criticism were equalled...