French Defense: Classical Variation
ECO C14 · French Defense · positional · intermediate
The French Defense: Classical Variation (C14) is a positional chess opening in the French Defense family, played by Black. It arises after the moves 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Bg5 Be7 5. e5 Nfd7 6. Bxe7 Qxe7. Historical main line. Natural development. Recommended for intermediate players.
Moves: 1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Bg5 Be7 5. e5 Nfd7 6. Bxe7 Qxe7
About this opening
The Classical Variation (3.Nc3 Nf6) develops Black's pieces naturally and invites White to clarify intentions: the 4.e5 push leads to the Steinitz Variation and closed positions, while 4.Bg5 opens more dynamic lines. Solid and logical, it illustrates the fundamental themes of the French: the pawn chain, the “French” light-squared bishop and the ...c5 break.