Despite the king granting him lucrative financial privileges throughout his lifetime, Dufresny remained perpetually burdened by debt due to his extravagant lifestyle and unconventional personal choices in Paris.
Early Life and Patronage
Born in 1648 in Paris, Dufresny occupied a unique position within the French court. The belief in his royal lineage through an illegitimate connection to Henry IV allowed him access to royal favor. This patronage often manifested as financial grants, yet his inability to manage personal finances meant he was frequently destitute despite these royal injections of capital.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Literary and Dramatic Output
Dufresny maintained a prolific career as a playwright and writer. His theatrical works, compiled in his six-volume Théâtre in 1731, gained recognition for their sprightly wit and pithy observations. Notable plays include L'Esprit de contradiction (1700), Le Double Veuvage (1701), and La Joueuse (1709). Beyond drama, he authored Nouvelles historiques (1692) and Amusements sérieux et comiques d'un Siamois (1705).
Journalism and Later Years
Serving as a director from 1710 until 1724, Dufresny also engaged in journalism and song-writing. His life became a subject of public curiosity, particularly his second marriage to a washerwoman to settle an outstanding bill. This incident served as inspiration for Alain-René Lesage in his 1707 work, Le Diable boiteux. Dufresny died in Paris in 1724.
Fast facts
- Born: 1648, Paris
- Died: 1724, Paris
- Citizenship: France
- Occupations: screenwriter, poet, playwright, singer-songwriter, musician, editor, journalist
- Position held: Director (1710-1724)
- Language: French
- Major dramatic collection: Théâtre (1731)
Questions readers ask
What is Charles Rivière Dufresny best known for?
He is primarily known as a French playwright and writer whose comedies, such as La Joueuse and L'Esprit de contradiction, were recognized for their wit.
Did Dufresny have royal connections?
Yes, he was a valet de chambre to Louis XIV, a position he attained due to the allegation that he was an illegitimate grandson of Henry IV.
.jpg)
