Bernardin de Saint-Pierre

Timothy Reeve (University of Exeter)
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Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre first rose to prominence with the publication of his

Études de la nature

[

Studies of Nature

] (1784), a hymn to a Creator God whose providence was evident not only in the harmony and order of nature, but in human affairs as well. Although scientifically flawed, the

Études

revealed a talent for description and an ability to captivate and move that earned Bernardin his greatest success in the romantic novel

Paul et Virginie

[

Paul and Virginia

] (1788). His most significant contribution to the Revolution were the

Vœux d'un solitaire

[

Wishes of a Solitary Man

] (1789), a detailed statement of his political views that was enthusiastically received. Besides his literary achievements, Bernardin held the posts of Intendant of the Royal Garden and Professor…

1719 words

Citation: Reeve, Timothy. "Bernardin de Saint-Pierre". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 03 March 2008 [https://www.litencyc.com/php/speople.php?rec=true&UID=3905, accessed 19 March 2024.]

3905 Bernardin de Saint-Pierre 1 Historical context notes are intended to give basic and preliminary information on a topic. In some cases they will be expanded into longer entries as the Literary Encyclopedia evolves.

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