Guy de Maupassant, a towering figure in French literature, was born on
August 5, 1850, somewhere in Normandy, France. His childhood was steeped in the
rich cultural traditions of his birthplace, a setting that would influence his
literary voice throughout his life. Maupassant's journey from a tumultuous
youth to a celebrated writer is marked by resilience and the relentless pursuit
of artistic mastery.
Early Life and Influences
Born to Laure Lepoitevin de Maupassant and Gustave de Maupassant, Guy was
their eldest son. His mother, along with her brother, shared a close bond with
Gustave Flaubert, the renowned author of Madame Bovary. This connection
proved vital in Maupassant's formative years, nurturing his interest in
literature. Following her divorce, Laure dedicated herself to raising her sons,
investing her settlement in their upbringing. Educated initially at Etretat and
later by his mother, Maupassant's early exposure to Shakespeare was profound.
At thirteen, he attended the seminary of Yvetot, where his penchant for
scandalous poetry led to his expulsion. He continued his education at a Rouen
lycée, where he studied under Louis Bouilhet and corresponded with Flaubert,
both of whom guided his budding literary ambitions.
Military Service and Literary Ambitions
In 1870, during the Prussian invasion, Maupassant served in the army. His
experiences during this period fueled his literary imagination. After the
conflict ended, Maupassant returned to civilian life and frequented the salons
of French literary circles, particularly those hosted by Flaubert. These
encounters solidified his resolve to pursue writing seriously, albeit
recognizing the need for a steady income. Consequently, he took up a clerical
position at Paris's Ministry of Marine, a job he despised but often depicted in
his tales. Seeking reprieve, he spent leisure time with friends on the Seine,
indulging in various escapades.
Apprenticeship and Breakthrough
Under the mentorship of Flaubert, Maupassant honed his craft for seven
years. Though not related by blood, Flaubert's influence was profound, steering
Maupassant's early attempts silently but firmly. Despite Flaubert's advice
against premature publication, Maupassant managed to publish some works under a
pseudonym. A pivotal change occurred when he transferred to the Ministry of
Education, aligning better with his aspirations. In 1880, shedding his
pseudonyms, Maupassant emerged with the story "Boule de Suif," a piece that
gained immediate acclaim alongside Emile Zola's works. This marked the
beginning of his ascent in the literary world.
Rise to Fame
Maupassant swiftly became a household name, his stories gracing the pages of
leading newspapers. His newfound fame brought financial stability and freed him
from the constraints of his previous job. With his debut collection, La
Maison Tellier, and the success of his novel Bel Ami, Maupassant's
lifestyle transformed. He invested in property, including a villa in Etretat
and a yacht for Mediterranean adventures. His prosperity allowed him to support
his family and other struggling writers.
Prolific Output
For a decade, Maupassant maintained a prolific output, crafting nearly three
hundred short stories, several novels, and numerous articles. His ability to
balance work with leisure trips did not hinder his productivity. His works
gained recognition internationally, with Lafcadio Hearn and Henry James
introducing him to American audiences, elevating him to a status akin to
literary greats like Walt Whitman.
Struggles With Health
Maupassant's later years were marred by health issues, primarily due to
syphilis, contracted in his youth and exacerbated by his intense writing
schedule. He suffered from debilitating migraines and eye problems, prompting
him to seek relief through extensive travels across Africa, Italy, Sicily, and
Corsica. These journeys inspired many travelogues and stories, rich with vivid
portrayals of distant lands. Medical treatments of the time offered little
respite, and his physical and mental health deteriorated, casting a shadow over
his once vibrant existence.
The Final Years
The specter of insanity loomed over Maupassant, especially after his brother
Herve was institutionalized. Fearing the same fate, Maupassant attempted
suicide twice in a desperate bid to escape his declining mental state. Both
attempts were thwarted by his loyal valet Francois, who had served him for
eight years. Despite Francois's efforts, Maupassant was eventually admitted to
a mental asylum in Passy. There, under constant watch, he spent the last months
of his life. Guy de Maupassant passed away on July 6, 1893, leaving behind a
legacy of literary brilliance at the age of forty-three.
