Deux magots

[stu harris]

The two official definitions of "magot" are a) macaque b) somme d'argent. Yet the statues preserved in that horrible tourist-trap "Les Deux Magots" in the 6eme are clearly merchants.

 

How should this be translated, in context?

[Erwan]

Hi Stu,

It seems that the name of this famous cafe in Paris comes from an old play titled "Les deux Magots de la Chine". In this play Magot is the translation of a Chinese word and means figurine.

You can find a small article about this place here (in English) and of course on Wikipedia (in French).

Hope it helps

[Natasha Edwards]

Hi Stu,

Believe the name Deux Magots actually comes from Mages as in Wise Men, and nothing to do with either monkeys or maggots!

Best,

Natasha