Charles de Saint-Évremond, French soldier and critic (d. 1703)

Charles de Saint-Évremond: A 17th-Century French Mind in Exile

Charles de Marguetel de Saint-Denis, seigneur de Saint-Évremond, born on April 1, 1613, was a truly remarkable figure of 17th-century France. Far from being confined to a single role, he wore many hats throughout his long life, distinguishing himself as a soldier, a keen observer of human nature, a hedonist, and a sharp literary critic. His journey through life, which concluded on September 29, 1703, was as eventful as it was intellectually rich, marked by both military service and a profound engagement with philosophy and literature.

The Political Storm and English Exile

However, Saint-Évremond's independent spirit eventually led him down a path of political dissent. After 1661, he found himself living in exile, a direct consequence of his critical stance against French policy following the Peace of the Pyrenees in 1659. This significant treaty, which concluded the long-standing Franco-Spanish War, was a pivotal moment in European diplomacy, shaping national borders and power dynamics. Saint-Évremond’s outspoken critique of the French government’s handling of the peace agreement proved too much for the authorities, forcing him to seek refuge. He spent the remainder of his life primarily in England, making London his new intellectual and social home and cultivating a vibrant circle of acquaintances.

A Private Pen, A Public Legacy

Despite his public banishment, Charles de Saint-Évremond continued to cultivate his intellectual passions. He was, at heart, a writer who composed primarily for his circle of friends, never truly intending for his essays and criticisms to reach a broader, published audience. His witty and incisive observations on society, morality, and literature were cherished by those close to him. Yet, as often happens with compelling minds, a few of his insightful pieces managed to circulate and even get 'leaked' during his lifetime, hinting at the depth of his thought. It wasn't until after his death, in 1703, that the full scope of his genius became widely accessible. The very first comprehensive collection of his diverse works was finally published in London in 1705, ensuring his legacy as a significant literary voice of his era, bridging French and English intellectual traditions.

Final Resting Place in Poets' Corner

A testament to his adopted country's recognition of his intellectual contributions, Charles de Saint-Évremond found his final resting place among literary giants. He is buried in Poets' Corner, located within the hallowed grounds of Westminster Abbey. This prestigious section of the Abbey is traditionally reserved for some of the greatest writers, poets, and playwrights in English history, making his inclusion a profound honor that underscores the significant impact he made on the cultural and intellectual landscape, even as a Frenchman living in English exile.

Frequently Asked Questions about Charles de Saint-Évremond

Who was Charles de Saint-Évremond?

Charles de Marguetel de Saint-Denis, seigneur de Saint-Évremond (1613–1703), was a prominent French figure known for his diverse roles as a soldier, hedonist, essayist, and literary critic. He spent a significant portion of his later life in exile.

Why was he exiled from France?

He was exiled after 1661 as a direct consequence of his strong criticism of French policy concerning the Peace of the Pyrenees, a treaty signed in 1659 that ended the Franco-Spanish War.

Where did he live during his exile?

He lived primarily in England, making London his main residence for the latter part of his life.

Where is Charles de Saint-Évremond buried?

He is buried in the prestigious Poets' Corner within Westminster Abbey in London, a place of honor for celebrated literary figures.

Were his writings published during his lifetime?

He primarily wrote for his friends and did not intend his works for public consumption. While some of his pieces were circulated or 'leaked' during his lifetime, the first complete collection of his works was published posthumously in London in 1705.