Shakespeare and Company is a legendary independent bookstore in Paris, France, that has been around since 1919. The store’s founder, Sylvia Beach, was a pioneering woman who helped to bring some of the most famous works of English literature to the world stage.
Shakespeare and Company is known for its extensive collection of books by English writers, including many first editions. But what makes the English books of Shakespeare and Company so famous? Let’s take a closer look.
History of Shakespeare and Company
Sylvia Beach opened the original Shakespeare and Company on November 17th, 1919. The store quickly became a hub for expatriate writers living in Paris after World War I.
Beach was known for her support of writers like Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, James Joyce, and Gertrude Stein. In fact, Beach was the first person to publish James Joyce’s novel Ulysses in 1922.
The Famous English Books at Shakespeare and Company
Shakespeare and Company has always been known for its collection of English language books. The store carries both new releases and rare first editions of classic works by authors such as Virginia Woolf, William Faulkner, Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, F. Scott Fitzgerald among others.
- First Editions: One reason why people love this shop is because they carry rare first edition books from famous English authors.
- Rare Books: The shop also has an extensive collection of rare books that are difficult to find elsewhere.
- New Releases: You can always find the latest releases from popular English authors at Shakespeare and Company.
The Legacy of Sylvia Beach
Sylvia Beach was a true pioneer for women in literature. She opened her bookstore at a time when few women owned businesses, let alone bookstores. Beach’s legacy continues to inspire generations of women who work in the publishing industry.
Visiting Shakespeare and Company
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, make sure to stop by Shakespeare and Company. The store is located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, just across from Notre Dame Cathedral.
You can spend hours browsing through their extensive collection of English books. The current location has been around since 1951, and it has been a must-visit location for book lovers ever since.
Conclusion
Shakespeare and Company is famous for its extensive collection of English language books, especially first editions and rare books. The store’s founder, Sylvia Beach, was a trailblazer for women in literature and helped to bring some of the most famous works of English literature to the world stage. Whether you’re an avid reader or just love visiting historic bookstores while traveling, you won’t want to miss Shakespeare and Company on your next trip to Paris!