Mérimée

Prosper Mérimée was a French dramatist, novelist, short story writer, and poet. Born in Paris in 1803, he was the son of a painter and teacher. Mérimée studied law and became a civil servant, eventually holding several high-ranking positions. He was also an Inspector of Historical Monuments, a role that allowed him to travel extensively throughout France and contribute to the preservation of many important sites.

Mérimée's literary career began with plays and short stories, but he gained wider recognition for his novels. His most famous works include "Colomba" (1840) and "Carmen" (1845). "Carmen," a novella about a passionate and independent gypsy woman, later inspired the famous opera by Georges Bizet. Mérimée's writing style is characterized by its clarity, conciseness, and often ironic detachment. He was known for his psychological depth and his ability to create vivid characters and settings.

Beyond his literary achievements, Mérimée was a significant figure in French cultural life. He was elected to the Académie française in 1844 and became a senator under Napoleon III. His critical essays and historical studies also contributed to his reputation. Mérimée died in Cannes in 1870, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be read and appreciated for its literary merit and historical insights. He is remembered as a master of the short novel and a keen observer of human nature.