Francois de La Rochefoucauld Quotes
A collection of quotes by Francois de La Rochefoucauld.
François de La Rochefoucauld was a French author and moralist, born on September 15, 1613, in Paris, France. He is widely known for his distinctive work, "Maximes," a collection of moralistic reflections and philosophical aphorisms.
La Rochefoucauld belonged to a noble family, and his early life was deeply influenced by the political and social climate of the time. He actively participated in political intrigues and court life, serving in various positions at the French royal court. However, his political career suffered setbacks, including imprisonment, which prompted him to turn his attention toward writing.
In his renowned work, "Maximes," first published in 1665, La Rochefoucauld explored the complexity of human nature and exposed the underlying selfishness and hypocrisy within social interactions. His succinct and incisive aphorisms continue to be celebrated for their timeless critique of human behavior, ethics, and morality.
La Rochefoucauld's writing style revolutionized French literature, marking a transition from the grandiloquent prose of the Renaissance to a simpler and more direct form of expression. His work greatly influenced other prominent thinkers and writers, including Blaise Pascal and Friedrich Nietzsche.
François de La Rochefoucauld passed away on March 17, 1680, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a key figure of French literature and philosophy. His "Maximes" remains an essential work in the field of moral and philosophical introspection, exploring the intricate facets of human nature that continue to resonate with readers to this day.
