Scudéry, Madeleine de

(1607-1701)

   writer

   Known for her lengthy sentimental novels, Madeleine de Scudéry, who was one of the most popular authors of her time, was born in Le Havre. She eventually settled in Paris and became part of the literary salon of Catherine de vivonne, marquise de Rambouillet, before hosting her own salon, which was also frequented by leading social and intellectual figures. Her major writings (romans à clef and dissertations on morality and love) include Artemené ou la grand Cyrus (10 volumes, 1649-53), Clélie, histoire romaine (10 volumes, 1654-61), and Conversations morales (1686 and 1688). De Scudéry wrote in the literary style of preciosity, which emphasized refined over course language and presentation. it would play an important role in encouraging the tendency toward psychological realism that would later become prominent in French fiction. The adherents of preciosity, like de Scudéry, sought in their salon gatherings and in their writings to advance women's personal and social status. Her brother, Georges de Scudéry (1601-67), an author and critic, collaborated on some works.