Alain René Le Sage

Born in Sarzeau, Brittany, in 1668, Alain-René Lesage became one of the most important French novelists and playwrights of the early 18th century. He was educated by Jesuits, studied law in Paris, and turned to writing for a living after early financial hardship.

Lesage first built his career through translations and adaptations from Spanish literature and drama. That Spanish influence remained central to his work, especially in The Devil upon Two Sticks and in his best-known book, Gil Blas, published in parts between 1715 and 1735.

Alongside his fiction, he also wrote for the theater, with Turcaret standing out as one of his best-known comedies. He died in Boulogne-sur-Mer in 1747, leaving behind fiction and drama admired for their wit, strong storytelling, and keen eye for human weakness.