Francisco de Quevedo

Date of Birth: September 14, 1580

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: September 8, 1645

Biography

Francisco de Quevedo was a prolific and influential Spanish writer, poet, and satirist of the Spanish Golden Age. Born into a noble family in Madrid, Quevedo was well-educated and exhibited a prodigious talent for literature from a young age. He studied at the University of Alcalá and later at the University of Valladolid. Quevedo’s literary career was marked by his sharp wit, his mastery of language, and his ability to traverse various genres, including poetry, prose, and political satire. Quevedo’s works often reflected his deep cynicism and skepticism about society and human nature. He was known for his biting satires that targeted the moral and social decay of his time. His most famous works include “Los Sueños” (The Dreams), a series of satirical visions, and “La Vida del Buscón llamado Don Pablos” (The Life of a Scoundrel Called Don Pablos), a picaresque novel. Quevedo was also a notable political figure, serving in various capacities under the Spanish monarchy. His political writings and involvement often landed him in trouble, leading to periods of imprisonment. Despite these challenges, his literary output remained prolific and influential until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about Francisco de Quevedo

1. Francisco de Quevedo had a contentious rivalry with fellow writer Luis de Góngora, often exchanging bitter satirical poems.

2. He was known for his sharp and acerbic wit, which earned him both admirers and enemies.

3. Quevedo was imprisoned multiple times due to his political writings and involvement in court intrigues.

4. His work “La Vida del Buscón llamado Don Pablos” is considered one of the greatest examples of the picaresque novel genre.

5. Quevedo was fluent in several languages, including Latin, Greek, Hebrew, and Italian.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Francisco de Quevedo

1. “We have become a nation of scoundrels and thieves, where honor is a commodity to be bought and sold.”

2. “Time is the only treasure we have, and we waste it as if it were worthless.”

3. “There is no greater glory than to die for love.”

4. “The tongue is the only tool that gets sharper with use.”

5. “We are born to live, to love, and to die; everything else is vanity.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As historical figures’ wealth is difficult to quantify in modern terms, Francisco de Quevedo’s highest net worth is not precisely documented. However, he was born into nobility and had substantial influence and resources during his lifetime.

Children

Francisco de Quevedo did not have any children. His personal life was marked by various romantic entanglements, but he never married or had offspring.