Genre and Themes

“A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy,” written by Laurence Sterne, is a travel narrative and a novel published in 1768. This work belongs to the genre of sentimental fiction, a literary trend that emphasizes emotions, individual experience, and personal reflection. Sterne’s novel, however, distinguishes itself from typical travelogues of the time by focusing less on the geographical aspects of travel and more on the psychological and emotional experiences of the protagonist, Yorick. The book explores themes of sensibility, human connection, and the contrasts between different cultures, all while offering a satirical critique of contemporary society.

Hook

What sets “A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy” apart is its innovative narrative style, which blends humor, sentimentality, and irony. Yorick’s journey through France and Italy is as much a voyage of the heart and mind as it is a physical journey, making the novel a profound exploration of human nature and emotions.

Plot Overview

The novel begins with the protagonist, Yorick—a thinly veiled representation of Sterne himself—embarking on a journey to France. Yorick is a clergyman, and his name is a nod to the famous court jester in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” suggesting the blend of humor and melancholy that characterizes the narrative. Yorick’s journey is motivated not by a desire to see landmarks or famous sites, but by a deep curiosity about the people and cultures he encounters.

Key Example: The Passport Incident

One of the first notable events in the novel is Yorick’s difficulty in obtaining a passport to enter France. This scene highlights the bureaucratic obstacles that travelers faced during the time and sets the tone for the rest of the journey. Yorick’s interactions with the French officials are marked by his wit and charm, as he manages to secure the necessary documents through a combination of flattery and appeal to sentiment, rather than by adhering to strict formalities.

Quote: “They order, said I, this matter better in France.”

This quote, which appears early in the novel, serves as a recurring motif. It reflects Yorick’s optimistic and sometimes naïve belief that the French, with their reputation for sensibility, handle situations with more grace and humanity than the English. The statement, while seemingly simple, underscores one of the book’s central themes—the comparison of cultural attitudes toward sensibility and human interaction.

Character Development

As Yorick travels through France, he encounters a variety of characters, each of whom represents different aspects of human nature and society. These encounters are less about the characters themselves and more about what they reveal about Yorick’s own sensibilities. For instance, his interactions with a monk, a beggar, and a beautiful lady named Madame de L—reveal his compassion, his biases, and his deep need for human connection.

Key Example: The Monk Encounter

In one of the novel’s most famous scenes, Yorick meets a Franciscan monk. Initially, Yorick is somewhat skeptical and distant, reflecting the anti-Catholic sentiments common in Protestant England at the time. However, as the conversation progresses, Yorick’s heart softens, and he ends up giving the monk a small donation. This encounter highlights the theme of sensibility—Yorick’s ability to feel and respond to the emotions of others.

Quote: “The monk…looked earnestly at me, as if to say, I see the hand of heaven is in it all.”

This quote illustrates the profound emotional connection that develops between Yorick and the monk, despite their initial differences. It also reflects Sterne’s broader commentary on the universality of human emotions, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.

Cultural Reflections

Throughout these encounters, Sterne uses Yorick’s reflections to comment on the differences between French and English society, particularly in terms of how emotions and social interactions are expressed. Yorick observes that the French are more open and expressive, while the English are often reserved and restrained. This contrast serves to critique the stoicism of English society, advocating instead for a life led by sensibility and emotional openness.

Italy and the Turn of Tone

As Yorick’s journey progresses and he moves toward Italy, the tone of the novel shifts slightly. While the earlier sections are filled with light-hearted anecdotes and gentle satire, the latter part of the journey delves deeper into themes of melancholy and introspection. This change mirrors Yorick’s internal journey as he becomes increasingly aware of his own vulnerabilities and the transient nature of life and happiness.

Key Example: The Italian Lady

One of the most poignant episodes occurs when Yorick meets a young Italian lady who is grieving the recent death of her lover. Yorick’s interaction with her is marked by deep empathy and a recognition of shared human suffering. This scene is critical because it encapsulates the novel’s exploration of the interplay between joy and sorrow, pleasure and pain.

Quote: “The heart, quoth she, is neither made of stone nor iron.”

This quote, spoken by the Italian lady, serves as a powerful reminder of the novel’s central message—the importance of feeling and emotional connection. It also highlights the vulnerability that comes with being open to one’s own emotions and those of others.

Yorick’s Realizations

By the end of the journey, Yorick has undergone a significant transformation. He begins to understand that sensibility, while a source of deep connection and joy, also exposes one to pain and disappointment. This realization is bittersweet, as it reflects both the beauty and the tragedy of the human experience.

Impact and Critical Reception

“A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy” was one of Laurence Sterne’s last works and remains one of his most celebrated. The novel was well-received upon its publication and has continued to be studied and admired for its innovative narrative style and its exploration of sensibility. Sterne’s work is often credited with helping to popularize the sentimental novel, influencing many later writers in the genre.

Relevance Today

The themes of “A Sentimental Journey” remain relevant today, as the novel explores universal aspects of the human condition—our need for connection, our capacity for empathy, and the delicate balance between joy and sorrow in life. In a world where cultural and emotional divides still exist, Sterne’s novel offers a reminder of the common humanity that binds us all.

Final Thoughts

“A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy” is not just a travel narrative; it is a profound exploration of the heart and mind. Through Yorick’s encounters and reflections, Laurence Sterne invites readers to embark on their own sentimental journeys, challenging them to embrace the full spectrum of human emotions with an open heart.

Laurence Sterne’s “A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy” is a masterful blend of humor, sentiment, and social critique. Through Yorick’s journey, Sterne not only entertains but also provokes thoughtful reflection on the nature of sensibility and the human experience. The novel’s lasting impact on literature and its continued relevance make it a timeless work that resonates with readers across generations.