Comic Epitaphs: Lucian, Scudéry, and Boileau. (1st July 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harrison, David
• Is Part Of: Seventeenth-century French studies. Volume 35:Number 1(2013)
• Page Start: 38
• Page End: 53
• Publication Date: 2013-07-01
• Subjects: France -- Civilization -- 17th century -- Periodicals; French literature -- 17th century -- History and criticism -- Periodicals; 944.033
• DOI: 10.1179/0265106813Z.00000000021
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0265-1068

Abstract

<abstract> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p>This article seeks to redefine the relationship between Boileau's <italic>Dialogue des héros de roman</italic> and Madeleine de Scudéry's <italic>Clélie</italic>. While Boileau wishes to use his text to erase Scudéry from memory, a close reading of the <italic>Dialogue</italic> and its Lucianic model reveals Scudéry's influence on Boileau's wit. Indeed, the character of Amilcar from <italic>Clélie</italic> embodies the spirit of Lucianic satire that Boileau hopes to use against Scudéry. Ultimately, Boileau is indebted to a form of <italic>enjouement</italic> that is inscribed within and popularized by <italic>Clélie</italic>, and it is this debt that Boileau tries unsuccessfully to make his reader forget in his <italic>Dialogue</italic>.</p> </abstract>