Madeleine de Scudéry

Madeleine de Scudéry (1607-1701) was a French novelist, influential in the intellectual life of the 17th century. Born in Le Havre, she moved to Paris with her brother Georges, where she became a central figure in literary salons. Her novels, such as "Clélie, histoire romaine" and "Artamène ou le Grand Cyrus", were extensive works that explored themes of love, morality, and politics, often using allegories to comment on contemporary society. Scudéry was known for her advocacy of "preciousness," a literary and social movement that emphasized the refinement of language and customs, and for her sharp intelligence and knowledge. She is also notable for being one of the few women to gain significant public recognition in a male-dominated field, and for having a long and productive literary career.