Destouches, Philippe Néricault

▪ French dramatist

born April 9, 1680, Tours, France

died July 4, 1754, Fortoiseau

      dramatist who brought to the tradition of French classical comedy influences derived from the English Restoration theatre.

      After classical studies in Tours and Paris, Destouches entered the diplomatic service. He was posted to Switzerland and, in 1717, to London. There he became acquainted with English writers and developed an affection for English customs and for Restoration drama. After his return to Paris, he was successful with his comedy Le Philosophe marié (1727; The Married Philosopher), although his plays were considered too moralistic by many of his contemporaries. His masterpiece is Le Glorieux (1732; The Conceited Count), which examines the conflict between the nobility and the bourgeoisie.

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