Shakespeare and Company, located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, Paris, is a historic bookstore and a literary landmark. Originally founded in 1919 by Sylvia Beach, it became a haven for expatriate writers, including Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Beach famously published Joyce's groundbreaking novel, Ulysses, after it was banned in the United States. This act of defiance solidified her reputation and the bookstore's role in the literary world.
The store's name is a homage to the English playwright William Shakespeare, but it also reflects Beach's love for English literature and her desire to create a space for writers and readers. The original Shakespeare and Company operated until 1941, when it was forced to close due to the German occupation of France during World War II. Despite its closure, the spirit of the store lived on, and it was later reopened in 1951 by George Whitman, who added the “& Company” to the name.
The current location at 37 Rue de la Bûcherie features a cozy atmosphere with bookshelves filled with both new and used books. The store encourages a community of readers, offering a space for literary events and readings. It is not just a bookstore but also a gathering place for writers and artists, continuing the tradition established by its founders.
One of the unique features of Shakespeare and Company is its policy of allowing travelers to sleep among the books. This tradition began with Whitman, who opened his doors to writers in need of a place to stay. Today, this practice continues, attracting aspiring authors from around the globe who seek inspiration in the same space where literary giants once gathered.
Shakespeare and Company also houses a small library with a collection of rare books and first editions. Visitors can find signed copies of works by famous authors, as well as a selection of literary-themed merchandise. The store is a testament to the rich literary history of Paris and remains a must-visit destination for book lovers.
Additionally, the bookstore has a strong online presence, allowing it to reach a global audience. Its website features a curated selection of books, fostering the same spirit of literary discovery that defined its early years. The legacy of Shakespeare and Company endures, encapsulating the essence of literary Paris, and continues to inspire generations of readers and writers alike.