Stendhal

Date of Birth: January 23, 1783

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: March 23, 1842

Biography

Marie-Henri Beyle, known by his pen name Stendhal, was a prolific 19th-century French writer renowned for his novels, biographies, and travel books. Born on January 23, 1783, in Grenoble, France, Stendhal is considered one of the earliest and foremost practitioners of realism in literature. His most famous works include “Le Rouge et le Noir” (“The Red and the Black”) and “La Chartreuse de Parme” (“The Charterhouse of Parma”), which have been celebrated for their acute psychological insight and vivid depiction of societal mores. Stendhal’s early life was marked by the death of his mother when he was seven, which left him with a strained relationship with his father. He later moved to Paris, where he initially sought a career in engineering and mathematics before being drawn into the literary world. He served in various administrative and military roles under Napoleon, experiences that enriched his understanding of human nature and society, subsequently informing his writing. Despite his literary genius, Stendhal’s works were not widely appreciated during his lifetime, and he faced considerable criticism. However, his reputation grew posthumously, and he is now considered a key figure in French literature, particularly for his pioneering use of psychological realism.

5 Interesting Facts about Stendhal

1. Stendhal was a fervent admirer of Napoleon Bonaparte and served in his army during the Italian campaign.

2. He often wrote under various pseudonyms, with “Stendhal” being the most famous, derived from the German town of Stendal.

3. Stendhal suffered from a psychosomatic condition known as “Stendhal Syndrome,” which he first experienced in Florence, Italy.

4. His novel “The Red and the Black” is considered one of the earliest psychological novels and a precursor to modern fiction.

5. Stendhal was a diplomat and served as the French consul in Civitavecchia, Italy, which gave him ample material for his writings.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Stendhal

1. “A very small degree of hope is sufficient to cause the birth of love.”

2. “Only great minds can afford a simple style.”

3. “One can acquire everything in solitude except character.”

4. “All religions are founded on the fear of the many and the cleverness of the few.”

5. “The man of genius is he and he alone who finds such joy in his art that he will work at it come hell or high water.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Stendhal’s net worth during his lifetime was modest. His works did not bring him significant financial success while he was alive. His highest net worth is difficult to estimate, but he lived comfortably due to his diplomatic salary.