News In Slow French #763 – Intermediate French Weekly Program

Date: October 10, 2025
Hosts: Catherine, Dominique
Guest Expert

Episode Overview

This episode of News In Slow French focuses on challenging current affairs in Europe, the legacy of two outstanding women in science and cinema, French linguistic insights, and ends with a cultural exploration of Marie-Antoinette. The main news segment centers on the alarming rise in antisemitism in Europe two years after the October 7 Hamas attacks, followed by discussions on France’s recent political turmoil, tributes to Jane Goodall and Claudia Cardinale, and engaging lessons on French grammar and idioms.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Antisemitism in Europe – Two Years After October 7

• Main Topic: Surge in antisemitic acts and heightened fears among the Jewish community in Europe, especially since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.
• Impact:
  • Many Jews feel compelled to hide their identity in public due to an escalation of threats and attacks.
  • European authorities have increased security around Jewish sites, particularly effective in places like Germany.
  • Despite security, recent attacks persist, such as the deadly Yom Kippur synagogue incident in Manchester.

Notable Quotes:

• “Les actes antisémites en Europe ont atteint des niveaux records à la suite de l'attaque menée par le Hamas contre Israël.”
  (Catherine, 04:03)
• “De nombreux Juifs se sentent obligés de dissimuler leur identité en public, en raison de l'escalade des menaces.”
  (Catherine, 04:35)
• “Ils craignent que l'antisémitisme ne devienne une arme politique, utilisée notamment par les partis d'extrême droite pour s'en prendre aux immigrants.”
  (Dominique, 05:44)
• “C'est vraiment alarmant.”
  (Guest Expert, 06:15)

Memorable Moment:

• The hosts and guest expert emphasize the difference between legitimate criticism of Israeli policy and antisemitic actions, calling for nuanced understanding.

“Je pense qu'il est également important de reconnaître que les critiques à l'égard d'Israël ne sont pas toutes antisémites.”
(Dominique, 06:36)

2. Political Crisis in France

• Current Situation: Sudden resignation of French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu deepens governmental crisis.
• Questions Raised:
  • What’s next for President Macron and France’s future?
  • How will the nation move forward after this political shock?

Timestamp: [01:11-01:34]

3. Science & Legacy – Jane Goodall’s Contribution

• Focus: Commemoration of Jane Goodall’s pioneering research and advocacy for nature conservation.
• Themes:
  • Her tireless work for nature protection is lauded as a key legacy.

Timestamp: [01:38-01:46]

Notable Quote:

• “Combat pour la protection de la nature mené par Jane Goodall.” (Catherine, 01:46)

4. Tribute – Claudia Cardinale

• Highlight: Mourning the loss of the Italian beauty icon and actress at age 87.
• Cultural Impact:
  • Cardinale is honored for her immense contributions to cinema and her international appeal.

Timestamp: [01:53-02:13]

Quote:

• “Ces deux femmes remarquables étaient admirées de tous et pour de bonnes raisons.”
  (Guest Expert, 02:04)

5. French Language & Culture – Grammar & Expressions

• Lesson: Gender of nouns in French (“Feminine and masculine nouns”), with a focus on semantic clues.
• Featured Expression: “Raconter des salades” (“to tell fibs/stretch the truth”).
• Culture Note: The Office national des forêts' collaboration with special bow hunters.
• Cultural Segment: An exceptional exhibition in London prompts a discussion of Marie-Antoinette, her life, and the many myths surrounding her.

Timestamp: [02:18-03:37]

Segment Timeline & Timestamps

| Segment | Timestamp | |------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------| | Intro & Overview of Topics | 00:11 – 01:53 | | Main News: Antisemitism in Europe Post-Hamas Attack | 03:44 – 07:26 | | Political Crisis in France | 01:11 – 01:34 | | Tribute to Jane Goodall and Claudia Cardinale | 01:38 – 02:13 | | Language and Cultural Segments (Grammar, Expressions, Marie-Antoinette)| 02:18 – 03:37 | | Analysis & Discussion on Antisemitism | 06:07 – 07:45 |

Memorable Quotes

• “J'ai du mal à réaliser que deux ans se sont écoulés depuis l'attaque du Hamas contre Israël… c'est vraiment alarmant.”
  (Guest Expert, 06:07)
• “Les mesures de sécurité ne divisent pas la population. Elles la protègent.”
  (Guest Expert, 07:45)
• “C'est triste que tant de Juifs ressentent le besoin de cacher leur identité en public...”
  (Dominique, 06:36)

Tone and Style

The episode employs a clear, calm, and thoughtful tone, matching its educational purpose and intermediate French audience. The hosts and expert address difficult news with empathy and clarity, while weaving in accessible language tips and cultural context.

For Listeners Who Missed the Episode

This episode offers:

• Insightful, current discussions on antisemitism and its impact on European society
• Analysis of recent political upheaval in France
• Tributes to two influential women: Jane Goodall and Claudia Cardinale
• Engaging French grammar lessons and cultural anecdotes

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