Important study on the mirage and appeal of America and its inhabitants as reflected in a variety of literary forms: real and imaginary voyages, missionaries’ accounts, novels etc. A link in the chain of Montaigne to Rousseau, this important study examines the impact of North and South American travel literature on the literary imagination. Excellent discussion of exotic and realistic elements in the 17th century novel. American scene in French 18th century theatre, pirates and adventurers in the New World, sentimental romance, philosophical missionaries.