Freemasonry: A French View
Book Review
Freemasonry: A French View is a book by two preeminent French Masons, Alain Bauer, Past Grand Master of the Grand Orient of France and Roger Dachez, Secretary General of the Masonic Institute Of France.
It offers an overview of French Masonic history and thought, without going into the specific practices of the various Grand bodies operating with France.
In it the authors trace Freemasonry though the unique historical events impacting France since the Craft’s introduction to that country. They explain how these historical events have impacted our Fraternity, and how those impacts have resulted in a Freemasonry that is different in some ways from what we know in the English speaking world.
This is a noble endeavor, for if the schism between what we call Regular Masonry and Continental Masonry that has existed since the 1870’s is ever to be healed, the first step must be an understanding of each other.
This schism between our understanding of Freemasonry, and the understanding held by Masons of the Grand Orient of France and those Obediences allied to it is harmful to worldwide Masonry, and in many practical ways prevents us from learning from each other. We can only hope that someday the gulf that separates us will be bridged.
I found the book to be an easy and extremely enjoyable read. Not only was it fun though, the information it presented brought me to a better understanding of French Freemasons, and what informs their perspective on our Ancient Craft.
Three particular parts of the book stand out to me:
The authors explore the possible origins of our Craft. They do not present any theories that Masons here in the United States are unaware of, but they do present a different perspective on those theories. I especially enjoyed their writings about the theory that speculative Freemasonry came about by the welcoming of non-operative Masons into operative Lodges. I’ve always found that theory to be not without problems, and the authors bring those problems to the forefront.
The authors discussion of the so called High Degrees and their development was I think a high point in the book. We trace the origin, especially of the Scottish Rite to France, giving these authors a perspective much closer to the source.
Lastly, the authors touch upon the concept of ‘Free Masons in a Free Lodge.’ A very brief, but fascinating concept. We’ve had Grand Lodges and Grand Orients managing our Craft for a bit over 300 years now. But is that a good thing? That is a question certainly worth discussing.
Freemasonry: A French View is I think a superb book that any Mason would enjoy. I’m pleased to give it my highest recommendation.
It is available here:
Freemasonry: A French View by Bauer & Dachez
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Thanks for the review. Ordered the book right away (kindle) going to read later on tonight.
French and Swedish masonry has lot in common, like the Scottish rite and high degrees.