Donatien Alphonse François, Marquis de Sade
- Born:
- June 2, 1740, Paris, France
- Died:
- December 2, 1814, Charenton-Saint-Maurice, France
- Nationality:
- French
- Profession(s):
- Novelist, Playwright, Philosopher
Early Life and Education
- Born into an aristocratic family.
- Educated at the Collège Louis-le-Grand.
- Brief military service as a cavalry officer.
Career and Major Achievements
- Spent a significant portion of his adult life imprisoned for various sexual offenses and writings deemed blasphemous or obscene.
- Wrote extensively while incarcerated.
- His works explore themes of sexual sadism, atheism, and social critique.
- The term "sadism" is derived from his name.
Notable Works
- Justine, or The Misfortunes of Virtue (1791)
- Juliette, or The Prosperities of Vice (1797-1801)
- The 120 Days of Sodom (written 1785, published posthumously)
- Philosophy in the Bedroom (1795)
- Numerous plays and short stories.
Legacy and Impact
The Marquis de Sade's works, though controversial and often censored, have had a significant impact on literature, philosophy, psychology, and art. His exploration of extreme human behavior and questioning of societal norms continue to be debated and analyzed.
Marquis de Sade Biography Movie Considerations
Several films have attempted to depict his life. These films often focus on his imprisonment and his intellectual and philosophical struggles, even while trying to create a balanced 'marquis de sade biography movie'.
Filmography (Based on Fictional Portrayals)
| Year | Title | Actor Portraying Sade |
|---|---|---|
| 1969 | De Sade | Keir Dullea |
| 2000 | Quills | Geoffrey Rush |