Alain-René Lesage Quotes, born May 6, 1668, in Sarzeau, France, and died November 17, 1747, in Boulogne, was a French novelist and playwright renowned for his satirical works, including the picaresque novel Gil Blas (1715–1735), the comic novel The Devil upon Two Sticks (1707), and the comedy Turcaret (1709). Orphaned at 14, Lesage studied law in Paris but abandoned it for literature, drawing heavily on Spanish theater and earning acclaim for his sharp wit and realistic portrayals of society. These 15 quotes—sourced from his works and translations—reflect his insights on human nature, wit, morality, and society, infused with his satirical and lively style.
15 Alain-René Lesage Quotes
- “I am happy and content because I think I am.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, 1715–1735)
- “Doubt is not below knowledge, but above it.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, 1715–1735)
- “Justice is such a fine thing that we cannot pay too dearly for it.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, 1715–1735)
- “Pride and conceit were the original sin of man.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, Book VII, ch. 3, 1715–1735)
- “Facts are stubborn things.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, Book X, ch. 1, 1715–1735)
- “It may be said that his wit shines at the expense of his memory.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, Book III, ch. 11, 1715–1735)
- “The pleasure of talking is the inextinguishable passion of a woman, coeval with the act of breathing.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, Book VII, ch. 7, 1715–1735)
- “A flatterer can risk everything with great personages.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, Book IV, ch. 7, 1715–1735)
- “I wish you all sorts of prosperity with a little more taste.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, Book VII, ch. 4, 1715–1735)
- “Would you like to be a brilliant conversationalist? Just give your natural enthusiasm free rein and say whatever comes into your head.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, 1715–1735)
- “To forbid wine to a man of your type is the same as forbidding women to a man of a different sort.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, 1715–1735)
- “Plain as a pike-staff.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, Book XII, ch. 7, 1715–1735)
- “The soul is that which denies the body. For example, that which refuses to run when the body trembles, to strike when the body is angry, to drink when the body is thirsty.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, 1715–1735)
- “At the name of Doctor Sangrado, hurrying on his cloak and hat: ‘For mercy’s sake,’ cried the notary, ‘let us set off with all possible speed; for this doctor dispatches business so fast, that our fraternity cannot keep pace with him.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, 1715–1735)
- “Isocrates was in the right to insinuate, in his elegant Greek expression, that what is got over the Devil’s back is spent under his belly.” (The Adventures of Gil Blas of Santillane, Book VIII, ch. 9, 1715–1735)
Alain-René Lesage’s quotes are a vibrant mix of sharp satire, human observation, and timeless wit, inspiring readers to question societal norms, embrace authenticity, and laugh at life’s absurdities. Which quote sparks your reflection? Share it below and keep Lesage’s literary legacy thriving!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
Email – business@mylittledesire.com
