Yes, this 1870's french is pretty alien. But unlike Verne, it's aliens/alienation are real not fictional. Ignoring the florid preface by the series editor, Tr

Yes, this 1870's french is pretty alien. But unlike Verne, it's aliens/alienation are real not fictional. Ignoring the florid preface by the series editor, Tresch's introduction is legible enough, and his translation of Michel seems pretty comprehensible too. Michel's is clearly a period piece, heavily stylized as a political / motivational screed, but fascinating nonetheless. I do wonder if "Every Society..." ever existed or if it's her invention. Clearly Octave Obdurant is at best a nom de guerre/plume. It's a great phrase nonetheless and worthy of both note and remembrance. Nice catch, OP.