Are you looking for a work placement in the Czech Republic? We’ve got just the thing for you, because the Czechs are great francophiles!
Why are Czechs Francophiles?
The Czechs have a long tradition of Francophilia dating back several centuries. Several historical and cultural factors have contributed to forging this special relationship between the Czech Republic and the French language:
- Shared history: For many years, the Czech elite was influenced by French culture and language. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Czech nobility was often French-speaking and had close ties with France, which helped to spread a love of the French language and culture throughout Czech society.
- The influence of French-speaking Europe: France is often seen as a bastion of culture and art in Europe. French literature, philosophy, music, cinema and other forms of artistic expression have attracted the attention and admiration of the Czechs.
- The role of education: French has long been considered an important language in education and international affairs. Many Czechs learn French at school, and some go on to higher education in France, strengthening links between the two countries.
- Cultural and linguistic exchanges: Cultural exchanges, festivals, exhibitions and events showcasing French culture are regularly organised in the Czech Republic. These initiatives help to promote the French language and encourage interaction between the two cultures.
- Attraction to linguistic and cultural diversity: Czechs, like the French, value linguistic and cultural diversity. Interest in the French language is often linked to the idea of opening up to the world and the desire to immerse oneself in a different culture.
In short, the Czechs’ Francophilia stems from a shared history, an admiration for French culture and art, and an interest in learning foreign languages. This special relationship between the Czech Republic and France helps to strengthen cultural exchanges and dialogue between the two countries.
Francophone Week
The Francophone Week in the Czech Republic is an annual celebration dedicated to the promotion of the French language and French-speaking cultures. This festive week usually takes place in March and is organised by the Institut français de Prague, in collaboration with various local and international partners.
During the Francophone Week, numerous cultural and educational activities are organised throughout the country. These events aim to celebrate the diversity of French-speaking cultures and raise awareness of the French language and its various artistic expressions among the Czech public.
The activities on offer during this week are varied and often include screenings of French-language films, art exhibitions, concerts, lectures, French-language workshops, tastings of French-language cuisine, theatre performances and many other cultural events.
The Francophone Week is also an opportunity for Czech francophones and francophiles to get together, exchange ideas and share their love of the French language and francophone cultures.
This event helps to strengthen links between the Czech Republic and French-speaking countries, by promoting multilingualism, language education and openness to cultural diversity.
In short, the francophone week in the Czech Republic is an enriching cultural event that showcases the French language and the richness of French-speaking cultures, while encouraging exchanges and dialogue between the country’s different linguistic communities.
By the way, every year the francophone week is a highlight of the national “tell me ten words” campaign. Each year, ten words are given pride of place. For the 2017-2018 school year, the ten words chosen are: accent, taboo, griot, jactance, ohé, put, whisper, truculent, voice, fickle.
An internship in the Czech Republic, a guaranteed difference?
Doing an internship in the Czech Republic will provide you with an enriching and different experience. Here are some of the things that will make your internship unique:
- Culture and heritage: The Czech Republic has a rich history and a remarkable cultural heritage. You’ll have the chance to discover historic cities like Prague, with its magnificent castles, churches and old buildings. You’ll be immersed in authentic European culture, with its traditions, cuisine and local customs.
- Language: Although English is increasingly spoken, especially in big cities and in professional circles, the Czech language is still widely used. You’ll be able to learn a few words of Czech and familiarise yourself with a new language, which will be a considerable asset for your CV and your international experience.
- Working environment: Czech companies have their own working culture, and an internship in the Czech Republic will enable you to discover new working methods and acquire adaptability. You’ll be able to immerse yourself in a different professional approach and develop your skills in a multicultural environment.
- Meetings and exchanges: During your placement, you will meet Czech colleagues, classmates and friends, as well as other international students. These encounters will provide you with professional and personal networking opportunities, as well as enabling you to forge lasting friendships with people from all over the world.
- Travel and discovery : The Czech Republic is located in the heart of Europe, which makes it easy to travel to other European countries. You can take advantage of weekends to explore other exciting cities such as Vienna, Budapest, Berlin and Krakow.
The influence of our countries on each other
The Czech Republic and France have enjoyed rich and dynamic cultural relations that have led to fruitful exchanges in a variety of fields. In the field of architecture, the Czech influence on France dates back to medieval times. Star vaults, typical of Czech Gothic architecture, were incorporated into some French buildings from this period, contributing to their beauty and originality.
Music is another area where cultural exchanges have been significant. Renowned Czech composers such as Antonín Dvořák and Bedřich Smetana found an attentive audience in France in the 19th century. Their works were performed and enjoyed throughout the country, helping to enrich the French musical repertoire of the time.
The visual arts have also been marked by the reciprocal influence between the two countries. Art Nouveau, a major artistic movement of the early 20th century, was greatly influenced by the Czech artist Alfons Mucha. His works, characterised by floral motifs and elegant curves, left an indelible mark on French art of the period.
France’s influence on the Czech Republic has mainly been in the cultural sphere, particularly in the teaching of the French language and the promotion of French culture. Many Czechs learn French at school and maintain close links with French culture through cultural exchanges, festivals, exhibitions and events organised in the Czech Republic.
In short, the influences between the Czech Republic and France are reciprocal and have developed over time thanks to cultural, artistic and linguistic exchanges between the two countries. These exchanges have helped to strengthen the ties between the Czech and French peoples and to enrich their respective cultures.
French celebrities in the Czech Republic
A number of French personalities are famous in the Czech Republic for different reasons. Here are a few examples of French people who have left their mark on Czech history or culture:
- Charles IV: Charles IV was King of Bohemia and Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire in the 14th century. He is widely regarded as one of the most important sovereigns in Czech history. He fostered the cultural, scientific and architectural development of Prague, the Czech capital, transforming the city into a centre of learning and constructing many iconic buildings, including Charles Bridge and St Vitus Cathedral.
- Alfons Mucha: Czech artist Alfons Mucha played a significant role in promoting Art Nouveau in the Czech Republic. However, he is also famous in France, where he produced some of his most emblematic works. His unique artistic style, characterised by floral motifs and elegant women, has left a lasting imprint in both countries.
- Marcel Marceau: The famous French mime Marcel Marceau is also well known in the Czech Republic. His wordless theatrical performances were much appreciated by Czech audiences, who admired his talent and artistic creativity.
- Édith Piaf: The French singer Édith Piaf is an icon of French chanson, and her songs have been widely heard and appreciated in the Czech Republic. Her powerful and moving voice touched many Czechs, who were captivated by her passionate interpretations.
These French personalities are famous in the Czech Republic for their contributions in the fields of art, music, architecture and culture. Their works and legacy continue to influence and inspire Czechs, strengthening the cultural and artistic ties between France and the Czech Republic.
In conclusion, an internship in the Czech Republic will give you a unique experience, both professionally and culturally. You’ll develop your open-mindedness, adaptability and intercultural skills, while experiencing unforgettable moments in a country with undeniable charm. If you have any specific questions about your work placement in the Czech Republic, don’t hesitate to ask! 😊
If you need any information about our work placements in the Czech Republic or other destinations, don’t hesitate to contact us and we’ll send you on your work placement abroad!
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