« Bien des gens ignorent que le doute méthodique est permis. » Leprince de Beaumont ou les Lumières de l’examen

Marie Leprince de Beaumont creates a methodology in her writing for girls : the intellectual requirements are systematised into a method of examination of whatever they discuss. This technique, both logical and ethical, is supposed to lead the girls to a perfect ­comprehension and practice of their faith. This article shows that the pedagogical aims of this method of the “Lumières de ­l’examen” become apologetical aims in Les Américaines, where the girls become defenders of faith with the help of this educational method.