400th Anniversary Of The Birth Of Madame De Sevigne

Madame de Sévigné (1626-1696), born Marie de Rabutin-Chantal, was a French aristocrat famous for her extensive and witty correspondence. Widowed at a young age, she devoted herself to the education of her two children and to the social life of the Marais district. Her letters, particularly those addressed to her daughter, Madame de Grignan, offer a vivid portrait of 17th century society. Some refer to Charlotte-Catherine de Gramont, Princess of Monaco and a friend of Madame de Grignan. Published after the Marquise de Sévigné's death, this collection of letters has become a major classic of French literature.