Maurice Druon
Maurice Druon
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Maurice Droulers was a French novelist and historian, commonly known as Maurice Druon.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: April 23, 1918, in Paris, France
Died: March 14, 2009, in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France (aged 90)
Nationality and Profession(s)
French novelist and historian; also known as a politician and writer.
Early Life and Background
Maurice Druon was born on April 23, 1918, in Paris, France. He came from a family of modest means and was educated at the prestigious Lycée Louis-le-Grand. After completing his secondary education, he attended the École Libre des Sciences Politiques, where he developed an interest in history and politics.
During World War II, Druon served as a lieutenant in the French Resistance, participating in several operations against the German occupation of France. This experience had a profound impact on him, shaping his views on politics, history, and human nature.
Major Accomplishments
Druon's most significant accomplishments include:
Prix Goncourt: In 1957, he won the prestigious Prix Goncourt for his novel _Les Grandes Familles_.
French Politician: From 1971 to 1993, Druon served as a member of the French Senate and held various leadership positions, including that of President of the Senate (1988-1992).
Historical Contributions: He was a prominent historian, contributing numerous works on French history, particularly the Middle Ages. His historical novels are known for their meticulous research and engaging storytelling.Notable Works or Actions
Druon's notable works include:
_Les Grandes Familles_ (1957) - A novel that won the Prix Goncourt, exploring the lives of France's aristocracy during World War II.
_Les Rois Maudits_ (1955-1990) - A historical series on the Capetian kings of France, which he wrote over a period of 35 years.Impact and Legacy
Maurice Druon left an indelible mark on French literature, politics, and history. His works have been widely acclaimed for their meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and insight into human nature.
Historical Significance: As a historian, he shed light on the complexities of France's past, particularly during the Middle Ages.
Literary Contributions: His novels are known for their vivid portrayals of French society and politics, offering readers a glimpse into the country's rich history.
Legacy in Politics: Druon's experience as a politician has contributed to his reputation as a statesman and writer.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Maurice Druon is widely quoted and remembered due to:
Historical Insight: His meticulous research and engaging storytelling have made him an authority on French history, particularly the Middle Ages.
Literary Contributions: As a novelist, he has written works that are both critically acclaimed and accessible to readers from diverse backgrounds.
* Legacy in Politics: His experience as a politician has left a lasting impact on French politics and society.
Maurice Druon's life was marked by his passion for history, literature, and politics. As a writer, historian, and statesman, he left behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire readers and scholars alike.
Quotes by Maurice Druon
Italian is the language of song. German is good for philosophy and English for poetry. French is best at precision; it has a rigour to it.
I lived the life of Londoners - and thence comes my immense gratitude and my deep attachment with the British people. I do not think there has ever been a people in the world who displayed a heroism as discreet, as mundane and as universal.
The French no longer respect their language, because they no longer love themselves, and, no longer loving themselves, they no longer love what was the instrument of their glory - their language.
I love English, though I now call it 'Anglo- American' because we no longer speak British English due to globalization and America's economic power.
There is a singular strand running through history, always renewing itself, that of fanatics for the general good and for the written law. Logical to the point of inhumanity, pitiless towards others as towards themselves, these servants of abstract gods and of absolute law accept the role of executioners, because they wish to be the last executioner. They deceive themselves because, once dead, the world no longer obeys them.
A man who would agree to betray his own conscience for the sake of a mitre, might well also steal and betray.
For in truth the years have little effect on our nature and age does not free us of our faults. We lose our hair more quickly than our weaknesses.
Even when we are punished for the wrong reasons, there is always a real cause for our punishment. Every unjust act, even committed for the sake of a just cause, carries its curse with it.