
French
Novelist
20 May 1799
18 Aug 1850
Honoré de Balzac was a French novelist and playwright, widely regarded as one of the greatest literary figures of the 19th century. Born on May 20, 1799, in Tours, France, Balzac began his writing career at a young age, publishing his first novel at the age of 30. He is best known for his magnum opus, La Comédie Humaine, a series of novels and short stories that capture the essence of French society during the early 19th century. Balzac's work is characterized by its detailed and realistic portrayal of characters, as well as its exploration of themes such as love, ambition, and social class.
Throughout his prolific career, Balzac wrote over 90 novels, plays, and essays, leaving behind a rich and diverse body of work that continues to be studied and celebrated to this day. His writing style is known for its vivid descriptions, complex characterizations, and keen observations of human nature. Balzac's work has had a profound influence on the development of the novel as an art form, and his innovative approach to storytelling has inspired generations of writers around the world. Despite facing financial challenges and personal setbacks throughout his life, Balzac remained dedicated to his craft, producing some of the most enduring works of French literature. He passed away on August 18, 1850, in Paris, leaving behind a legacy that endures to this day.