Family Background

Maupassant was born into an old Lorraine family of minor nobility

Education

Formal Education

Maupassant's formal education began at a small seminary and continued at a high school, where he showed academic promise and developed a passion for literature

Influence of Gustave Flaubert

Maupassant's most profound influence on his literary career came from Gustave Flaubert, who became his mentor and introduced him to other literary figures

Early Life Events

Maupassant's early life was shaped by his parents' separation and his subsequent living with his mother and younger brother in Étretat, which would later influence his writing

First Major Success

Maupassant achieved his first major success with the short story "Boule de Suif" (1880), which was included in the anthology "Les Soirées de Médan."

Prolific Writing

Maupassant wrote nearly 300 short stories, six novels, three travel books, and a collection of poetry, establishing himself as a prolific writer

Themes and Style

Exploration of Social Issues

Maupassant's stories are celebrated for their realistic depiction of everyday life and society, exploring themes such as war, class, and human relationships

Narrative Style

Maupassant's narrative style is noted for its clarity, precision, and carefully constructed plots, which are hallmarks of the Naturalist literary movement

Health Issues

Maupassant struggled with syphilis, which took a significant toll on his health and mental well-being

Mental Illness in the Family

Maupassant's brother Hervé suffered from mental illness and died in an asylum, which deeply affected Maupassant

Decline and Death

Maupassant's declining health and struggles with mental illness led to his attempted suicide and eventual death at the age of 42