What have the French done for the cultural life of Australia, and more globally? That is the question addressed by the essays in this volume, penned by eminent experts in their fields. The notion that France is synonymous with 'culture' seems deeply entrenched in our collective imaginary. But what does that really mean? By shining a light on a range of French cultural phenomena and examining their legacy, in Australia and beyond, this volume seeks to foster a more nuanced understanding of France's cultural impact. In so doing, it aims to go beyond the cliches - in short, to help separate the myth from the reality.