Photo : Bibliothèque historique de la Ville de Paris/4-EPM-00303
Conference cycle "Working-class history, histories of women workers"
On the occasion of the Gustave Charpentier (1860-1956) exhibition, this conference cycle explores the figure of the female worker through the lens of social and gender domination.
Bibliothèque historique de la Ville de Paris (BHVP)
About
From October 2026 to January 2027, the Historical Library will present an exhibition on the Montmartre composer Gustave Charpentier (1860-1956), whose archives and manuscripts are held in its collections. A series of three evenings—Wednesdays November 4, December 9, and January 6—featuring lectures, a reading, and a round table, will accompany this exhibition.
Known for the opera Louise, which tells the story of a seamstress in love with a poet, Charpentier was also distinguished by his social commitment to the working world, and more specifically to women workers. In this context, the library is organizing a cycle of talks on the figure of the female worker from the 19th century to the present day. Through sociological, historical, and ethnological lenses, this cycle will examine, among other things, the relationships between class, gender, and domination, and the interactions between class struggle and gender struggle.
Our take on this event
Discover the hidden side of Montmartre's history and the evolution of women's labour movements through an intimate lens. These expert discussions peel back the layers of history, art, and sociology to challenge how we view the intersection of class and gender. It is an insightful way to spend an evening exploring the untold narratives of working-class struggle.
The Bibliothèque historique de la Ville de Paris hosts a series of three events examining the history and role of women workers from the 19th century to the present day. Organized alongside an exhibition on composer Gustave Charpentier, these sessions feature lectures, readings, and roundtables focusing on social class, gender dynamics, and labor history. Designed for audiences aged 15 and over, the program provides an insightful look into the lives and struggles of working women. These sessions are free to attend and the venue is wheelchair accessible. Mark your calendars for November 4, 2026, December 9, 2026, and January 6, 2027.
The Bibliothèque historique de la Ville de Paris invites visitors aged 15 and up to explore the figure of the female worker through a dedicated lecture series. Running in conjunction with an exhibition on the life and works of Montmartre-based composer Gustave Charpentier, these events bridge the gap between artistic legacy and social reality. Charpentier’s own commitment to the working class, particularly women, informs the themes discussed throughout the cycle.
The events take place on three specific Wednesdays: November 4, 2026, December 9, 2026, and January 6, 2027. Attendees will engage with historical, sociological, and ethnological perspectives on the intersection of gender and class, with a schedule structured around lectures and discussions. This series is an opportunity to analyze the evolution of labor and gender struggles from the 19th century to modern times.
Located in the 4th arrondissement, this program is offered free of charge. The library is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all interested participants can engage with these discussions in a comfortable environment.
