Alfred de Vigny

Alfred de Vigny (1797–1863) was a French poet, novelist, playwright, translator, and early Romanticist. Born in Loches to an aristocratic family, he entered the royal guard at sixteen and served in the military before devoting himself increasingly to literature.

His best-known works include the historical novel Cinq-Mars, the novels Stello and Servitude et Grandeur Militaires, and the play Chatterton. His poetry, including Éloa and the posthumously published collection Les Destinées, helped establish his reputation as a serious and reflective voice in nineteenth-century France.

Vigny died in Paris on September 17, 1863, a few months after the death of his wife. His work continued to appear after his death, including Journal d’un Poète and later collected editions.