La Rochefoucauld, Fran?ois Quotes

A collection of quotes by La Rochefoucauld, Fran?ois.

François, Duc de La Rochefoucauld, was a prominent French writer and moralist, best known for his collection of maxims titled "Reflections; or Sentences and Moral Maxims." He was born on September 15, 1613, in Paris, France. La Rochefoucauld belonged to a noble family, and as a young man, he was trained for a career in arms before transitioning to courtly life.

During his time at the French court, La Rochefoucauld became associated with influential figures, including Cardinal Richelieu. However, his political ambitions were thwarted when he joined the Fronde, a series of civil wars against the centralization of power in France. La Rochefoucauld was wounded in battle and imprisoned briefly.

It was during his years of imprisonment that La Rochefoucauld began to write his famous maxims, which explored human nature, self-interest, and love. These concise and memorable aphorisms offered a critical and often cynical view of human behavior. After his release from prison, La Rochefoucauld continued to refine and expand his collection, eventually publishing it in 1665. His maxims gained widespread popularity and are still considered a significant contribution to French literature.

La Rochefoucauld's works, alongside his involvement in the political upheaval of his time, established him as a prominent figure in French intellectual and literary circles. He died on March 17, 1680, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of France's most influential moralists and writers.