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The Wedding of Colette and Henri de Jouvenel

Colette

Colette's Remarkable Journey to Love

Colette’s Background and Literary Fame

Born in 1873 in Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye, France, Colette became one of the most celebrated French authors of her time. With her audacious spirit and profound insightful writing, she transformed the literary landscape. By 1912, she was known not just for her stories, which often explored themes of love and sensuality, but also for her vibrant personality and complex relationships, notably her tumultuous first marriage to Willy, a writer and critic.

Henri de Jouvenel: A Man of Many Talents

Henri de Jouvenel, born in 1876, was not only a prominent newspaper editor for Le Matin, but also an accomplished politician and novelist. His intellectual pursuits and literary prowess made him an appealing partner for Colette, who sought someone who could both challenge and inspire her.

A Love Story Written in the Stars

The Meeting of Colette and de Jouvenel

The paths of Colette and Henri de Jouvenel crossed in the vibrant cultural milieu of early 20th century Paris. Their romance blossomed amidst the backdrop of literary salons, avant-garde movements, and the unyielding spirit of feminist thought. Both were deeply affected by the norms of their time yet existed outside them, making their union a perfect blend of passion and intellect.

The Wedding in 1912: A Moment of Joy and Controversy

On a summer day in 1912, Colette and de Jouvenel tied the knot, marking a new chapter in their lives and in Colette's literary output. This marriage brought its own set of controversies as it involved a woman who was a established literary figure marrying a man in the public eye, stirring discussions about the roles of women, marriage, and independence of the era.

Fun Fact

Colette’s Interesting Fact

In addition to her famed literary career, Colette was known for her bold nature; she was a trailblazer in modern femininity. Following her marriage to de Jouvenel, she adopted his last name and wrote under it, further blending her identity with her husband’s, while simultaneously challenging societal norms.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Colette

Dive deeper into the life and works of Colette with the classic memoir “The Pure and the Impure” which explores her views on love and sexuality. Additionally, “Colette: A Biography” offers an insightful look into her life as an author and as a woman ahead of her time.