France - Traditions and Daily life
By Ekaterina Zhdanova-Redman
Name _______________________
Date _______________ Per ____
French daily life is surrounded by the country's deep cultural roots that date
back hundreds, even thousands of years. French culture is thought by many to be
one of the most developed in the world, and many French citizens regard their
cultural heritage as all-important.
1
Generally, French people are very independent and individualistic. Thinking
for one's self is highly regarded, as is respect for other people's independence
and freedom. However, this support of freethinking does not exist without a
respect for time-honored traditions. French people mix the latest ideas with traditional ways of
doing things, which can be seen in the diverse arts and crafts that can be found across the
country.
2
At the center of France's artistic heritage is its capital city, Paris, which is arguably one of
the world's most culturally rich cities. In Paris, you would find more museums housing more
famous and diverse artwork than most people think possible in one city. Among the city's
famous museums is the Louvre, a centuries-old museum that is home to thousands of priceless
works of art, including paintings by Leonardo da Vinci and sculptures by Michelangelo.
3
Paris is also home to some of the country's most famous restaurants, which are often some
of the best restaurants in the world. French attention to cooking and baking has a long and
proud history, with many in the world regarding French cooking as one of the finest in the
world. French chefs are known for their creativity and attention to detail which often includes
using only the freshest ingredients for their dishes. Among some of the well-known French
foods are cheese, chocolates, sauces, salads, and soups. French people are also known for their
love of good wine, which is proudly made by French winemakers all over the country.
4
French people take their relaxation time very seriously. Vacation from one's job is strictly
guarded and seldom interrupted. Many French people enjoy the sport of fishing, which is almost
a kind of national pastime. Frequently, the waterways and coastlines of France are lined with
fishermen. In fact, there is a French saying about fishing "pêcher à la ligne," which, while
literally meaning "to go fishing," is often said to mean "doing nothing and enjoying it."
5
Bicycling is a popular sport in France, which is home to the Tour de France, one of the most
famous bicycle races in the world. During the Tour, more than a hundred professional bicyclists
race each day for almost a month all over France. Professional bicyclists regard a Tour
championship as a career-crowning achievement.
6
Other important events in France include Fête Nationale, also called Bastille Day, on July
14. Celebrated in remembrance of the storming of the Bastille prison during the French
Revolution, Fête Nationale celebrations are grand events that last all day. Also in July, many
French villages hold their own annual celebrations, complete with merry-go-rounds for
children. One of France's important religious holidays is Mardi Gras, a kind of carnival
celebrated the Tuesday before the Catholic Lent.
7
The most popular religion in France is Roman Catholicism, although few French actively
attend worship services. Muslims and Protestant Christians make up the next largest religious
segments in France.
8
French people have a nationalistic pride that is seldom seen among other nations. Because
of this pride, French culture has been preserved while being allowed to develop and improve.
Among some of France's more modern achievements are a mastery of filmmaking and haute
couture (high fashion).
Copyright © 2009 edHelper
9
France - Traditions and Daily life
1. Culture is very important to French daily
life.
False
True
3. Champagne is:
A kind of wine
A brand of shoes
A kind of chocolate
A car
5. French people are nationalistic.
False
True
7. The Tour de France is:
A bicycle race
An airplane
A car race
A kind of vacation
2. The Louvre is:
A museum
A concert house
A restaurant
A movie theater
4. According to the story, many French
people enjoy:
Fishing
Bungee-jumping
Skydiving
Watching television
6. The most popular religion in France is:
Buddhism
Taoism
Catholicism
Baptist
8. Mardi Gras is celebrated on Thursday.
False
True