The "Characters" of Jean de La Bruyère (eBook)

Jean de La Bruyère (1645–1696) was a French philosopher and moralist, renowned for his incisive and satirical portrayal of contemporary society. He is best remembered for his seminal work, 'The Characters' or 'Les Caractères' (1688), a collection of character sketches that brilliantly depicts the foibles and vices of his time. La Bruyère's work is often recognized for its stylistic precision and depth of psychological insight, characteristics that have earned him a distinguished place among the classical writers of French literature. His acute observations and moral reflections were influenced by Theophrastus, an ancient Greek philosopher whose character sketches La Bruyère translated and expanded upon, infusing them with his unique perspective on 17th-century French society. La Bruyère's 'Characters' is not merely a gallery of portraits, but also a critical mirror held up to the social and moral behaviors of the aristocracy and bourgeoisie, serving as a vehicle for his ethical judgments and literary prowess. His sharp wit and engagement with the social issues of his day continue to make his work relevant and admired, placing him among the great moralists like La Rochefoucauld. La Bruyère's 'Characters' remains a foundational text for those interested in French literature and the evolution of the moral essay.