François duc de La Rochefoucauld
François duc de La Rochefoucauld was a noted French author of maxims and memoirs, as well as a moralist of the 17th century. He is best known for his collection of aphorisms, 'Maximes', which reflect his cynical view of human nature and the social and political life of his time. His work is marked by his wit, clear-sightedness, and a certain degree of pessimism regarding human behavior and motivations.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Maximes
"Maximes" is a collection of philosophical and moral reflections and maxims written by a 17th-century French nobleman. The book delves into the nature of human behavior, motives, and social relations, often with a cynical view. It explores the complexities of love, friendship, self-interest, and virtue, suggesting that human actions are often driven by self-love and vanity rather than by altruism or genuine care for others. The author's sharp, concise style and profound insight into human nature have made this work a classic in French literature.
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2. Maxims
This book is a classic collection of witty, pithy, and often cynical aphorisms that delve into the nature of human behavior, morality, and society. The author, a 17th-century French nobleman, uses his sharp observations to explore themes such as love, friendship, vanity, and the complex interplay between self-interest and virtue. His maxims reveal the paradoxes and ironies of the human condition, suggesting that our actions are frequently driven by hidden motives and that genuine altruism is rare. The work invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and to question the authenticity of their emotions and actions.
