In 1635, Cardinal Richelieu formally established the Académie française. The institution aimed to regulate and refine the French language. Its creation reflected the close connection between absolutist state power, cultural prestige and literary standardisation.

The Académie strengthened ideals of clarity, correctness and classical order in French letters. It influenced drama, poetry and criticism, shaping the language in which Corneille, Racine, Boileau and later French writers worked.