University French literature professor Francois Rigolot was officially knighted by French President Jacques Chirac into the National Order of Merit on Nov. 14.
Rigolot said he views the honor as "an important token as recognition of the unbreakable friendship between France and the United States."
The honor was created by French President Charles de Gaulle in the early 1960s to honor artists, humanists and scholars who have "significantly contributed to the development of French culture throughout the world," according to the decree initiating the honor.
The French ambassador informed Rigolot that Chirac had recognized his contributions as a scholar of early modern France and as a Princeton administrator who "actively fostered the development of French studies in a world-famous university," according to a letter from the ambassador.
Rigolot chaired the Department of Romance Languages and Literatures for 11 years and is currently the chair of Renaissance studies at the University. He pointed to his works on the 16th century French authors Rabelais and Montaigne as having contributed to his recognition. He has published a dozen books on early modern French literature and culture from that period.
"As an expatriate living abroad, it means something to be recognized by the mother land," Rigolot said of the honor.
He acknowledged French Senator Andre Maman, a former University professor, for possibly advocating on his behalf.
Rigolot was unable to fly to France this fall to receive the gold medal signifying his honor due to responsibilities at the University. The French ambassador may visit Princeton to conduct an official presentation, but this possibility has not been confirmed. A ceremony is scheduled for early next year at the French Embassy in Washington, D.C.
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