François-René de Chateaubriand


==========================

Full Name and Common Aliases


---------------------------------

François-René de Chateaubriand was born as François René de Châteaubriand on September 4, 1768. He is commonly referred to as the "Father of Romanticism" in French literature.

Birth and Death Dates


-------------------------

September 4, 1768 - July 14, 1848

Nationality and Profession(s)


---------------------------------

François-René de Chateaubriand was a French diplomat, politician, historian, poet, and writer. He is best known for his literary works that explored the human experience during times of great change.

Early Life and Background


------------------------------

Born in Combourg, France, Chateaubriand was raised on the family's estate by his mother after his father abandoned them when he was just a young boy. This early life would later shape his writing and worldview. He studied law at the University of Paris before embarking on a diplomatic career that took him to England in 1787.

Major Accomplishments


---------------------------

Diplomatic Career: Chateaubriand served as a diplomat for France, including a stint as the French Ambassador to Britain and Sweden.
Literary Contributions: He is considered one of the key figures in the development of Romanticism in literature. His works often explored themes of nature, love, loss, and the human condition.
Historical Contributions: Chateaubriand was a pioneer in historical writing, blending fiction and fact to create vivid narratives that brought history alive for his readers.

Notable Works or Actions


-------------------------------

Some of Chateaubriand's most notable works include:

"Atala" (1801): A novella about the conflict between Native American spirituality and French colonialism, which became a bestseller.
"Rene" (1802): A novel exploring themes of love, loss, and redemption.
"Génie du christianisme" (1802): A philosophical work that explored the role of Christianity in shaping Western culture.

Impact and Legacy


-------------------------

Chateaubriand's impact on literature is immense. He was a key figure in the development of Romanticism, influencing writers like Victor Hugo and Alexandre Dumas. His works continue to be read and studied today for their insight into the human experience.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


---------------------------------------------

Chateaubriand's quotes are often sought after because they capture the essence of his romantic worldview: a deep connection with nature, a reverence for love and loss, and a commitment to exploring the complexities of the human condition. His words continue to inspire readers, writers, and thinkers around the world.

Through his literary works and diplomatic career, Chateaubriand left an indelible mark on French literature and culture. His legacy endures as a testament to the power of writing to capture the essence of our shared human experience.

Quotes by François-René de Chateaubriand

Perfect works are rare, because they must be produced at the happy moment when taste and genius unite; and this rare conjuncture, like that of certain planets, appears to occur only after the revolution of several cycles, and only lasts for an instant.
"
Perfect works are rare, because they must be produced at the happy moment when taste and genius unite; and this rare conjuncture, like that of certain planets, appears to occur only after the revolution of several cycles, and only lasts for an instant.
One does not learn how to die by killing others.
"
One does not learn how to die by killing others.
Something you consider bad may bring out your child’s talents; something you consider good may stifle them.
"
Something you consider bad may bring out your child’s talents; something you consider good may stifle them.
Achilles exists only through Homer. Take away the art of writing from this world, and you will probably take away its glory .
"
Achilles exists only through Homer. Take away the art of writing from this world, and you will probably take away its glory .
Religion assures us that our afflictions shall have an end; she comforts us, she dries our tears, she promises us another life. On the contrary, in the abominable worship of atheism, human woes are the incense, death is the priest, a coffin the altar, and annihilation the Deity.
"
Religion assures us that our afflictions shall have an end; she comforts us, she dries our tears, she promises us another life. On the contrary, in the abominable worship of atheism, human woes are the incense, death is the priest, a coffin the altar, and annihilation the Deity.
Alexander created cities everywhere he passed: I have left dreams everywhere I have trailed my life.
"
Alexander created cities everywhere he passed: I have left dreams everywhere I have trailed my life.
Music is the child of prayer, the companion of religion.
"
Music is the child of prayer, the companion of religion.
My downfall made a great noise: those who appeared most satisfied criticized the manner of it.
"
My downfall made a great noise: those who appeared most satisfied criticized the manner of it.
The original writer is not he who refrains from imitating others, but he who can be imitated by none.
"
The original writer is not he who refrains from imitating others, but he who can be imitated by none.
Let us not disdain glory too much; nothing is finer, except virtue. The height of happiness would be to unite both in this life.
"
Let us not disdain glory too much; nothing is finer, except virtue. The height of happiness would be to unite both in this life.
Showing 1 to 10 of 37 results