The journal published critical reviews of contemporary books and papers on a broad range of subjects, mostly non-fiction.

[1] The journal was established by Louis Auguste, Duke of Maine and ruler of the principality of Dombes to both discuss what was happening in the literary world and to stoutly defend the Catholic religion.

He published his article Conjectures on the Union of the Soul and Body in the journal in 1703, supporting the views of Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz.

[2] He was succeeded by Guillaume-François Berthier, one of the authors of the multi-volume Histoire de l'église Gallicane, who held the post until 1762 and did much to expand the circulation.

[6] Berthier generally stated his opinions calmly and clearly, giving a solid tone to the periodical that enhanced its authority.

The magazine also covered scientific and technical subjects that were unrelated to the more radical political and social concepts of the time, giving an impression of independence from government pressure.