Louis-Francois Clairville French poet, playwright, writer, participant in goguettes, librettist Date of Birth: 28.01.1811 Country: France

1. Early Life and Career
2. Collaboration and Success
3. Targets of Satire
4. Collaboration and Evolution
5. Literary Legacy

Early Life and Career

Henri-Benjamin-Constant Fortin, known as Clairville, was a prolific French writer born in 1797. Initially pursuing a career as an actor, he later became renowned for his satirical and witty plays and librettos.

Collaboration and Success

Clairville collaborated with several notable playwrights, including Michel-Jean Sedaine and Joseph-Marie-Charles Mio. Together, they penned over 300 vaudevilles and revues, poking fun at contemporary events and prominent figures.

Targets of Satire

Clairville's satirical works aimed their barbs at various targets. He lampooned the philosopher Pierre-Joseph Proudhon's famous slogan "Property is theft" in his play "La propri?t? c’est le vol." He also parodied Giacomo Meyerbeer's opera "The Prophet" as "L’?ne Baptiste" and Victor Hugo's play "The Burgraves" as "Les Huresgr?ves."

Collaboration and Evolution

In collaboration with other writers such as Dartois, Melville, and Cognard, Clairville ventured into more serious comedies of manners. His satirical wit remained evident, but he explored more nuanced and complex characters.

Literary Legacy

In 1853, Clairville published a collection of chauvinistic songs and poems titled "Chansons et po?sies." Despite his focus on satirical humor, his work left an enduring mark on French literature and theater. His influence can be seen in subsequent generations of playwrights and comedic writers.