Ninon de L’Enclos

Date of Birth: November 10, 1620

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: October 17, 1705

Biography

Ninon de L’Enclos, born Anne de l’Enclos, was a renowned French author, courtesan, and salonnière. She was born on November 10, 1620, in Paris, France. Ninon was celebrated for her wit, charm, and intellectual prowess, and she played a significant role in the literary and cultural circles of 17th-century France. Her salon became a gathering place for some of the most prominent thinkers, writers, and artists of her time, including Molière, La Fontaine, and Saint-Évremond. Ninon defied the conventional norms of her era by living a life of independence and intellectual freedom. She never married, choosing instead to engage in numerous romantic relationships with some of the most influential men of her time. Despite this, she maintained a reputation for integrity and respectability, thanks to her keen intelligence and engaging personality. Her writings, though fewer in number, include letters and reflections that offer valuable insights into the social and cultural dynamics of her time. Ninon passed away on October 17, 1705, in Paris, leaving behind a legacy of intellectual and social liberation for women.

5 Interesting Facts about Ninon de L’Enclos

1. Ninon de L’Enclos was known for her beauty and charm, which she retained well into her old age.

2. She was a contemporary and friend of many notable literary figures, including Molière and La Fontaine.

3. Ninon was imprisoned in the Madelonnettes Convent by order of Cardinal Richelieu, allegedly due to her relationships with high-profile men.

4. She was also a talented musician and played the lute.

5. Ninon left a portion of her estate to the young Voltaire, enabling him to pursue his education.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ninon de L’Enclos

1. “Feminine virtue is nothing but a convenient masculine invention.”

2. “It requires infinitely more genius to make love than to command armies.”

3. “Love never dies of starvation, but often of indigestion.”

4. “Flattery and deceit are the darlings of courtiers, and the twins of hypocrisy.”

5. “The resistance of a woman is not always a proof of her virtue, but more frequently of her experience.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Ninon de L’Enclos was not known for her wealth in the modern sense of net worth. However, she was well-off enough to maintain her independence and run a famous literary salon in Paris.

Children

Ninon de L’Enclos did not have any legitimate children. However, she is believed to have had an illegitimate son named Louis de Mornay, who became a notable figure in his own right.