Edmond de Goncourt
Biography
Edmond de Goncourt (1822–1896) was a French author who, together with his brother Jules (1830–1870), pioneered the Naturalist novel in France. The Goncourt brothers wrote collaboratively until Jules's death, producing novels, art criticism, and their famous Journal—a detailed chronicle of Parisian literary life. Germinie Lacerteux (1865), considered their masterpiece, shocked readers with its unflinching portrayal of a servant's secret life of degradation. After Jules's death, Edmond continued writing and, in his will, established the Académie Goncourt, which awards France's most prestigious literary prize, the Prix Goncourt.
Common themes in Edmond de Goncourt's work
French Naturalism
A recurring theme throughout Edmond de Goncourt's writing.
Prix Goncourt
A recurring theme throughout Edmond de Goncourt's writing.
Parisian Literary Life
A recurring theme throughout Edmond de Goncourt's writing.
Realist Fiction
A recurring theme throughout Edmond de Goncourt's writing.
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Why Edmond de Goncourt is still read today
The Goncourt brothers were pivotal figures in French literary history, pioneering Naturalism and establishing the Prix Goncourt, France's most important literary prize.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Edmond de Goncourt?
Edmond de Goncourt was a French novelist who, with his brother Jules, pioneered Naturalism and established the Prix Goncourt, France's top literary prize.
What is Germinie Lacerteux about?
A servant's secret double life of degradation and passion, one of the first Naturalist novels. Read it free on TextStack.
What is the Prix Goncourt?
France's most prestigious literary prize, established by Edmond de Goncourt's will and awarded annually since 1903.
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