Abstract: Extracts from Descartes's correspondence with Princess Elizabeth of Bohemia explaining his ideas on the passions lead to a psychological analysis of Descartes and a discussion of melancholia. Childhood is described, with reference to the social milieu to which he belonged. Sets the religious scene by reviewing the state of Christian religion in early seventeenth-century France. Erasmus’ educational reforms are discussed, and the rise of the municipal collèges organized by the gentry.

Keywords: childhood, collèges, educational reforms, melancholia, passions, religion, self-discipline,