François

François (1613-1680), Duc de la Rochefoucauld, was a great French maxim writer and classical author, member of a French family of Angoumois, born at Paris. He played a conspicuous part in the war of the Fronde. He was present at several engagements, and was wounded twice over, and retired at length in shattered health. Thereafter, he passed the rest of his days at court, where he enjoyed the society of the most distinguished ladies of the time. His "Maxims" appeared in 1665, and were immediately appreciated. They bear one and all on ethical subjects, and are the fruit of a life of large and varied commerce with the race.

Nearby pages
Francois Achille Bazaine, Francois Andre Isambert, Francois Andre Philador, Francois Andreossy, Francois Andrieux