Paris during the Second Empire

A visual dialogue between progress and memory through the lenses of Charles Marville and Eugène Atget

Abstract

This article explores the profound transfor mation of Paris in the 19th century, drawing on critical modernity theories, and presents a visual dialogue through the works of two iconic photographers: Charles Marville and Eugène Atget. In a period marked by rapid modernization and urban renewal, the city becomes a dynamic stage for significant changes, captured with artistic precision and sensitivity. Far from being mere visual records, their photographs reveal the essence of a metropolis in transition, where progress continually interacts with memory. In this context, photography stands out as a vital medium for preserving history and interpreting the social and cultural shifts of the era. The study encourages readers to view these past images as a powerful tool for understanding the evolving identity of a city constantly reshaped by time.