Encyclopaedia Universalis

French language reference work

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Last updated

June 26, 2026

Quick Summary

The Encyclopaedia Universalis is a French-language reference work first published between 1968 and 1974. It was a collaborative effort between the French Book Club and Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., with Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. becoming the sole owner in 2005.1

This encyclopaedia is known for its extensive, well-illustrated articles on important subjects, with a particular focus on modern science and technology. It eschewed minor entries in favor of in-depth coverage of key topics. The Encyclopaedia Universalis was also notable for its use of "coproduction," a publishing model where companies from different countries collaborate to produce an encyclopaedia for sale in various markets.1

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The 20th century and beyond
…interesting new encyclopaedias was the Encyclopaedia Universalis (first issued 1968–74), edited by Claude Grégory and owned by the French Book Club and Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. (since 2005 solely by Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.). This work, inspired by L’Encyclopédie, eschewed the inclusion of minor items in favour of extensive and very well-illustrated…
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…interesting new encyclopaedias was the Encyclopaedia Universalis (first issued 1968–74), edited by Claude Grégory and owned by the French Book Club and Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. (since 2005 solely by Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.). This work, inspired by L’Encyclopédie, eschewed the inclusion of minor items in favour of extensive and very well-illustrated…
Read More