Georges Courteline

Date of Birth: June 25, 1858

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: June 25, 1929

Biography

Georges Courteline, born Georges Victor Marcel Moinaux, was a prominent French dramatist and novelist, renowned for his satirical works that critiqued the absurdities of French society. Born on June 25, 1858, in Tours, France, he was the son of the journalist and playwright Jules Moinaux. Courteline’s career began in earnest when he moved to Paris, where he initially worked in a variety of civil service roles, experiences that would later inform his biting satires of bureaucratic life. Courteline’s writing is characterized by its sharp wit and keen observation of human follies. His best-known works include “Messieurs les Ronds-de-cuir” (1893), a scathing satire on the inefficiencies of bureaucracy, and “Boubouroche” (1893), which humorously explores themes of love and jealousy. His plays were highly successful and widely performed, making him a celebrated figure in French literary and theatrical circles. Throughout his career, Courteline received numerous accolades, including membership in the Académie Goncourt. He continued to write prolifically until his later years, leaving behind a legacy of works that remain influential in French literature. Georges Courteline passed away on June 25, 1929, in Paris, France, on his 71st birthday.

5 Interesting Facts about Georges Courteline

1. Georges Courteline was originally named Georges Victor Marcel Moinaux but adopted the pen name “Courteline” to distinguish himself from his father.

2. He served in the French military, and his experiences there also provided material for his satirical works.

3. Courteline’s works often featured characters trapped in absurd bureaucratic situations, reflecting his own frustrations with his time spent as a civil servant.

4. He was awarded the Legion of Honour, one of France’s highest distinctions, for his contributions to literature.

5. Despite his biting critiques of society, Courteline was known for his genial personality and was well-loved by his peers.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Georges Courteline

1. “The more you study, the more you know; the more you know, the more you forget; the more you forget, the less you know. So why study?”

2. “To be able to fill leisure intelligently is the last product of civilization.”

3. “I am responsible for what I say, but I am not responsible for what you understand.”

4. “Men are like steel; when they lose their temper, they lose their worth.”

5. “The world is full of fools, and he who would not see it should live alone and smash his mirror.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Georges Courteline’s highest net worth was never explicitly documented, as quantifying the net worth of literary figures from the early 20th century is challenging. However, his success and recognition suggest he was financially comfortable.