Roger Peyrefitte Quotes
Roger Peyrefitte (1907-2000) was a French writer, diplomat, and scholar known for his controversial and provocative works. He was born into a wealthy family and received a classical education before pursuing a career in diplomacy. However, he is best known for his literary works, which often explore…Read More
Roger Peyrefitte (1907-2000) was a French writer, diplomat, and scholar known for his controversial and provocative works. He was born into a wealthy family and received a classical education before pursuing a career in diplomacy. However, he is best known for his literary works, which often explored themes of homosexuality, religion, and politics.Peyrefitte’s most famous work is “The Exile of Capri” (1959), a semi-autobiographical novel that caused a scandal due to its explicit depiction of homosexual relationships. He also wrote several other novels, including “The Knights of Malta” (1960) and “The Oracle” (1966), which were met with both critical acclaim and controversy.Aside from his literary career, Peyrefitte also served as a diplomat, representing France in various countries including China, Japan, and the Vatican. He was also a scholar and wrote extensively on ancient Greek and Roman history, as well as the history of the Catholic Church.Peyrefitte’s works continue to be studied and debated for their bold and controversial themes, making him a significant figure in French literature and culture.Read Less
Roger Peyrefitte (1907-2000) was a French writer, diplomat, and scholar known for his controversial and provocative works. He was born into a wealthy family and received a classical education before pursuing a career in diplomacy. However, he is best known for his literary works, which often explored themes of homosexuality, religion, and politics.Peyrefitte’s most famous work is “The Exile of Capri” (1959), a semi-autobiographical novel that caused a scandal due to its explicit depiction of homosexual relationships. He also wrote several other novels, including “The Knights of Malta” (1960) and “The Oracle” (1966), which were met with both critical acclaim and controversy.Aside from his literary career, Peyrefitte also served as a diplomat, representing France in various countries including China, Japan, and the Vatican. He was also a scholar and wrote extensively on ancient Greek and Roman history, as well as the history of the Catholic Church.Peyrefitte’s works continue to be studied and debated for their bold and controversial themes, making him a significant figure in French literature and culture.
Roger Peyrefitte Career Highlights
- Peyrefitte began his career as a diplomat in 1930 and served in various countries including China, Japan, and the United States.
- In 1945, he was appointed as the French Consul in Shanghai, China, where he witnessed the rise of communism and the Chinese Civil War.
- Peyrefitte’s diplomatic career ended in 1955 when he was dismissed from his post due to his homosexuality, which was considered a crime in France at the time.
- He then turned to writing and published his first novel, “Les Amitiés Particulières” (Special Friendships) in 1943, which caused a scandal due to its depiction of a homosexual relationship between two teenage boys.
- Despite the controversy, the novel became a bestseller and was later adapted into a film.
- Peyrefitte went on to write over 30 books, including novels, essays, and biographies, many of which were based on his personal experiences and observations as a diplomat.
- He also became a prominent figure in French literary circles and was elected to the prestigious Académie française in 1977.
Key Contributions by Roger Peyrefitte
- Peyrefitte’s most significant contribution was his bold and unapologetic portrayal of homosexuality in his works, which challenged societal norms and sparked important discussions about sexuality and identity.
- His writing also shed light on the political and cultural landscape of the countries he lived in, providing a unique perspective on international affairs.
- Peyrefitte’s works were translated into multiple languages and had a significant impact on the LGBTQ+ community, inspiring many writers and artists to explore similar themes in their own works.
What Sets Roger Peyrefitte Apart
- Peyrefitte’s fearless approach to writing about taboo subjects, particularly homosexuality, set him apart from his contemporaries and made him a pioneer in LGBTQ+ literature.
- He was also known for his sharp wit and satirical writing style, which added a layer of humor to his often controversial topics.
- Peyrefitte’s background as a diplomat gave him a unique perspective and allowed him to write about international affairs with authority and insight.
Takeaways
- Roger Peyrefitte’s career highlights the power of literature to challenge societal norms and spark important conversations about taboo subjects.
- His contributions to LGBTQ+ literature and his fearless approach to writing continue to inspire writers and readers today.
- Peyrefitte’s work also serves as a reminder of the importance of freedom of expression and the impact it can have on shaping our understanding of the world.
Other People
Writer/Author
Writer
· England
1878 - 1957
Writer
· England
1950
Writer
1892 - 1966
