Paul Claudel

Date of Birth: August 6, 1868

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: February 23, 1955

Biography

Paul Claudel was a renowned French dramatist, poet, and diplomat, born on August 6, 1868, in Villeneuve-sur-Fère, France. From an early age, Claudel displayed remarkable literary talents, which later led him to become one of the most influential figures in 20th-century French literature. His works are known for their deep spiritual and religious themes, often exploring human existence and divine grace. Claudel’s notable plays include “The Tidings Brought to Mary” (“L’Annonce faite à Marie”) and “The Satin Slipper” (“Le Soulier de satin”). His poetic and dramatic compositions are characterized by their unique blend of symbolism and realism, often reflecting his devout Catholic faith. Apart from his literary career, Claudel served as a diplomat in various countries, including the United States, Brazil, Japan, and China, which provided him with a global perspective that influenced his works. Claudel was also the brother of the famous sculptor Camille Claudel, whose tumultuous life and relationship with the sculptor Auguste Rodin were immortalized in various biographies and films. Paul Claudel passed away on February 23, 1955, in Paris, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire readers and theatergoers around the world.

5 Interesting Facts about Paul Claudel

1. Paul Claudel converted to Catholicism at the age of 18, which profoundly influenced his subsequent works.

2. He was awarded the Grand-Croix de la Légion d’honneur, one of the highest decorations in France.

3. Claudel’s play “The Satin Slipper” (“Le Soulier de satin”) is known for its extraordinary length, often requiring up to 11 hours to perform in its entirety.

4. He had a longstanding friendship with the composer Darius Milhaud, who composed music for some of Claudel’s plays.

5. Claudel’s diplomatic career spanned several continents, providing him with a wealth of cultural experiences that enriched his literary works.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Paul Claudel

1. “Art is the collaboration between God and the artist, and the less the artist does, the better.”

2. “The essential element in personal magnetism is a consuming sincerity—an overwhelming faith in the importance of the work one has to do.”

3. “I love life too much to want to live forever.”

4. “Youth is a continual intoxication; it is the fever of reason.”

5. “The day of my spiritual awakening was the day I saw—and knew I saw—all things in God and God in all things.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Paul Claudel’s highest net worth was never publicly documented in monetary terms. However, his influence and contributions to literature and diplomacy were invaluable and left a lasting legacy.

Children

Paul Claudel had five children with his wife, Reine Sainte-Marie-Perrin. Their names are: 1. Marie Claudel 2. Reine Claudel 3. Henri Claudel 4. Charles Claudel 5. Louise Claudel