Travels Through France and Italy by Tobias Smollett is an 18th-century travel narrative documenting his personal experiences and observations across France and Italy. This book serves as both a memoir of his journey and a critical commentary on the cultures and locations he encounters, infused with Smollett's characteristic wit and social critique. The opening of the work explains his reasons for leaving Britain, mainly due to deteriorating health and personal hardships. As he arrives in Boulogne, France, he vividly describes his initial experiences and impressions, blending humor with sharp criticism. His dissatisfaction with local customs, accommodations, and the attitudes of innkeepers and residents foreshadows the satirical tone that will define the rest of his journey. This early section highlights Smollett as a keen observer, grappling with the discomforts of travel and his own physical ailments along the way.
