Lettres de Madame de Sévigné by marquise de Marie de Rabutin-Chantal Sévigné

Letters of Madame de Sévigné is a collection of over 3,000 letters written by Marie de Rabutin-Chantal, Marquise de Sévigné, to her daughter Françoise-Marguerite de Grignan between 1670 and 1696. The letters are considered a masterpiece of French literature and offer a unique glimpse into the life of the French aristocracy during the 17th century.

Summary

The letters chronicle the daily events of Sévigné's life, including her social engagements, family matters, and observations of the world around her. They are written in a lively and engaging style, and Sévigné is known for her wit, intelligence, and keen eye for detail. The letters also reveal a deep and loving relationship between Sévigné and her daughter.

Themes

The letters explore a wide range of themes, including love, loss, friendship, family, religion, and politics. They also provide insights into the social and cultural mores of the time.

Literary Significance

The Letters of Madame de Sévigné are considered a landmark in French literature. They are praised for their natural style, their vivid descriptions, and their insightful commentary on human nature. The letters have been translated into many languages and continue to be read and admired by readers around the world.

Here are some additional details about the letters:

• The letters were not originally intended for publication. Sévigné wrote them to her daughter to keep her informed about her life and to share her thoughts and feelings with her.
• The letters were first published in 1726, over 30 years after Sévigné's death.
• The letters have been edited and annotated many times over the centuries.
• The letters are an important source of information for historians and scholars of French literature and culture.