Prosper Jolyot de Crébillon, French poet and playwright (d. 1762)

Prosper Jolyot de Crébillon: A Master of French Neoclassical Tragedy

Prosper Jolyot de Crébillon, born on 13 January 1674 and passing away on 17 June 1762, was a significant figure in 18th-century French literature, renowned primarily as a playwright of neoclassical tragedies and a poet. Often referred to as Crébillon *père* to distinguish him from his equally notable son, Claude Prosper Jolyot de Crébillon, a novelist, he carved out a unique niche in the dramatic landscape of his era.

Crébillon’s theatrical contributions were firmly rooted in the classical tradition that dominated French theatre, adhering to the unities of time, place, and action, and employing elevated verse. However, he distinguished himself from contemporaries like Jean Racine and later, Voltaire, through his distinctive focus on intense, often violent, and dark subject matter. His plays frequently explored themes of destiny, revenge, family curses, and overwhelming passions, earning him the moniker "the French Aeschylus" or a master of the "tragedies of terror" (*tragédies de la terreur*). He pushed the boundaries of emotional intensity and psychological depth within the rigid classical framework, often depicting horrifying events and complex moral dilemmas on stage.

Among his most acclaimed works are *Atrée et Thyeste* (1707), a chilling tale of vengeance and cannibalism, and *Rhadamiste et Zénobie* (1711), a powerful drama of love, political intrigue, and fatal decisions. Other notable plays include *Électre* (1708), *Idoménée* (1705), and his final major success, *Catilina* (1748). His dramatic style, characterized by vigorous language and a focus on grand, often terrible, events, stood in contrast to the more philosophical and sentimental approach adopted by his great rival, Voltaire, who eventually surpassed him in public favour in the genre of tragedy. Despite this rivalry, Crébillon maintained a respected position in French literary circles, leading to his election to the prestigious Académie française in 1731.

While his works are less frequently performed today compared to those of Racine or Corneille, Prosper Jolyot de Crébillon remains an important figure for understanding the evolution of French neoclassical tragedy. His unique approach to dramatic intensity and his exploration of the darker aspects of human nature left an indelible mark on 18th-century theatre, offering a vital counterpoint to the more refined and rationalistic trends of the Enlightenment era.

Frequently Asked Questions about Prosper Jolyot de Crébillon

Who was Prosper Jolyot de Crébillon?

Prosper Jolyot de Crébillon (1674–1762) was a prominent French poet and dramatist, celebrated for his neoclassical tragedies during the 18th century. He is often referred to as Crébillon *père*.

What made Crébillon's tragedies unique?

Crébillon's tragedies were known for their intense, often dark, and violent plots, earning them the description "tragedies of terror." He delved into themes of vengeance, destiny, and extreme passions, pushing the emotional boundaries within the classical dramatic rules.

What are some of Prosper Jolyot de Crébillon's most famous plays?

His most acclaimed works include *Atrée et Thyeste* (1707), a stark drama of revenge, and *Rhadamiste et Zénobie* (1711), a powerful tragedy exploring love and power. Other notable plays include *Électre* and *Catilina*.

What was Crébillon's relationship with Voltaire?

Crébillon and Voltaire were contemporaries and notable rivals in the realm of neoclassical tragedy. While Crébillon was celebrated for his intense, often darker plots, Voltaire eventually gained greater popularity with his more philosophical and refined dramatic style. Despite this, Crébillon held a respected position, including membership in the Académie française.