Denis Diderot

(1713-1784) was a French philosopher, art critic, and writer of erotic fiction. Born into wealth, he studied philosophy at a Jesuit college before attempting to enter the clergy. In 1734, tiring of religion, he declared his wish to become a professional writer, and was disowned by his father. From this point onward, he lived as a bohemian in Paris, writing anonymous works of erotica, including The Talking Jewels (1748). In 1751, he cofounded the Encyclopédie, a controversial resource on the sciences that drew condemnation from the church and the French government. Despite his relative obscurity and lack of financial success, he was later recognized as a foundational figure in the radicalization of French society prior to the Revolution.
Nov 11, 2011
Cover of Oeuvres Completes

Oeuvres Completes

Oct 5, 2011
Cover of Der Hausvater.

Der Hausvater.

Sep 24, 2011
Cover of Sur Les Femmes

Sur Les Femmes