Vignette 136: Merci Monsieur Cornell

James Gladstone Cornell (1904–1991) held a particular interest in French language and literature, and following his death, works from his personal library were presented to the University by his family.

Professor Cornell joined the University as lecturer-in-charge of French in 1939 and then served as the first Professor of French Language and Literature from 1944 to 1969. In 1955, Professor Cornell received the Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur from the French Government for his weekly broadcasts to Pacific French speaking communities during the Second World War, and in 1984, he received the Commandeur des Palmes Académiques for his dedication to the French language and culture in South Australia.

The Cornell Collection features numerous editions of medieval romances, poetry, and works by influential French Renaissance writers. These volumes often contain detailed annotations by Professor Cornell, reflecting his extensive knowledge and textual analysis.

The Cornell Collection, curated from Professor Cornell’s personal library, continue to inspire the University’s French language and culture programs.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Preserving a legacy.  p.183