Author
Jean de La Bruyère
1645-1696
Jean de La Bruyère (1645-1696) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Books by Jean de La Bruyère
The "Characters" of Jean de La Bruyère
"The 'Characters' of Jean de La Bruyère" by Jean de La Bruyère is a collection of moral and social reflections written in the late 17th century. The work examines human nature and the follies of society, presenting a series of character sketches that criticize and illuminate the social norms and behaviors of the time. La Bruyère himself is highlighted as a keen observer and critic of the human condition, drawing on his experiences within the court and social circles of his era. At the start of "Characters," the introduction offers insight into La Bruyère's perspective on morality, literature, and society. It makes clear that while he does not aim to create maxims, his work is a detailed observation of the humankind's passions and vices. He states that his characters are composites drawn from various individuals, allowing for a broader commentary on human nature rather than merely painting specific portraits. This section sets the tone for an exploration of societal behavior at the end of the 17th century, where La Bruyère's nuanced critique addresses the superficiality of human interactions and the consequences of pride and Vanity amidst the backdrop of Louis XIV's courtly life.
Les caractères
"Les caractères" by Jean de La Bruyère is a collection of observations published in 1688. Working for seventeen years, La Bruyère crafted 420 remarks in the form of maxims, reflections, and portraits depicting French society and court life. Presented as a continuation of ancient Greek philosopher Theophrastus's work, the collection grew through nine editions to over 1,100 observations by 1694. La Bruyère sketched the social and cultural flaws of his time, balancing instruction with entertainment through varied literary forms and brilliant style.