Maxims (Wordsworth Classics of World Literature)

Francois,Duc De La Rochefoucauld

ISBN 10: 1853264873 / ISBN 13: 9781853264870

Published by Wordsworth Editions Ltd, United Kingdom, Herts, 1997

Francois, duc de La Rochefoucauld owes his place in French literature to his 504 moral maxims and reflective epigrams. Born in 1613, he was a child of the late Renaissance, and though his philosophy seems to derive from a belief that selfishness is the source of all human behaviour, its witty precepts and dispassionate manner had a marked influence on "le Philosophes" of the 18th century Enlightenment. The book has been read, but is in excellent condition. Pages are intact and not marred by notes or highlighting. The spine remains undamaged. Seller Inventory # GOR004567452

Synopsis:

Francois, duc de La Rochefoucauld owes his place in French literature to his 504 moral maxims and reflective epigrams. Born in 1613, he was a child of the late Renaissance, and though his philosophy seems to derive from a belief that selfishness is the source of all human behaviour, its witty precepts and dispassionate manner had a marked influence on "le Philosophes" of the 18th century Enlightenment.

From the Back Cover: "Stuart D. Warner and Stéphane Douard's handsome new edition of the 'Maximes' admirably succeeds in it two high purposes: it is a book beautifully organizesd for the maximum convenience of its readers that provides a translation - chaste, literal, and elegant - absolutely faithful tot he meaning of the great La Rochefoucauld. A spendid achievement in every way."

-Joseph Epstein
"A thorough edition and a superb translation of the most acute work in the French classical moralistic wisdom. The Introduction is brilliant. What La Rochefoucald denounced as the appetites of human pride is not so different indeed from what nowadays is called narcissism. His book expressed disillusion wih aristocratic individualistic values. But his resemblance with the 'demystifiers' of our times makes his 'Maximes' essential reading. A very remarkable book."

-Jean Starobinski
"La Rochefoucauld's sententious reflections on life, death and much of what passes in their compass are given shape in a masterly introduction that locates their author his relation to his moral and spiritual heritage and to a future that has become our modern environment. The thoughtful translation adds much to the merit of this valuable work."

-Joseph Cropsey

Bibliographic Details

Title: Maxims (Wordsworth Classics of World ...
Publisher: Wordsworth Editions Ltd, United Kingdom, Herts
Publication Date: 1997
Binding: Paperback
Condition: Very Good