Edmond de Goncourt

Date of Birth: May 26, 1822

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: July 16, 1896

Biography

Edmond de Goncourt was a prominent French writer and literary critic, best known for founding the Académie Goncourt, which awards the prestigious Prix Goncourt. Born on May 26, 1822, in Nancy, France, Edmond and his younger brother Jules de Goncourt were pivotal figures in 19th-century French literature. The Goncourt brothers are often remembered for their collaborative works, which include novels, diaries, and historical texts. Their writing style was characterized by its detailed realism and keen observation of society, which laid the groundwork for the naturalist movement. The Goncourt brothers were also influential art critics and collectors, and their diaries provide an invaluable record of the artistic and literary circles of their time. After Jules’ untimely death in 1870, Edmond continued to write and publish solo works. His most notable solo works include the novels “La Faustin” and “Cherie.” Edmond de Goncourt died on July 16, 1896, in Champrosay, France, but his legacy lives on through the Prix Goncourt, which remains one of the most esteemed literary awards in the French-speaking world.

5 Interesting Facts about Edmond de Goncourt

1. Edmond de Goncourt, along with his brother Jules, founded the Académie Goncourt, which awards the prestigious Prix Goncourt annually.

2. The Goncourt brothers were pioneers of the naturalist movement in literature.

3. Their diaries offer a detailed account of 19th-century French artistic and literary society.

4. Edmond was also a notable art critic and collector, amassing an impressive collection of Japanese art.

5. Despite their strong bond, the Goncourt brothers often quarreled intensely over their collaborative work.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Edmond de Goncourt

1. “A painting in a museum hears more ridiculous opinions than anything else in the world.”

2. “Man is a mind betrayed, not served, by his organs.”

3. “The fastidious are unfortunate; nothing satisfies them.”

4. “A poet never takes notes. You never take notes in a love affair.”

5. “Books are not men and yet they stay alive.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While specific figures are difficult to ascertain, Edmond de Goncourt was relatively affluent due to his literary success and art collection, achieving a net worth that would be considered substantial for his time.