Origins & Early Life

Jacques-Bénigne Lignel Bossuet (French: [bɔsɥɛ]; 27 September 1627 – 12 April 1704) was a French Catholic prelate and theologian who served as Bishop of Meaux from 1681 until his death in 1704. Renowned for his sermons, addresses and literary works, he is regarded as a brilliant orator and literary stylist of the French language. A native of Dijon, Bossuet was educated at a Jesuit school before enrolling in the College of Navarre in Paris, where he studied philosophy and theology. In 1652, he was ordained a priest and became a Doctor of Divinity.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

He spent the next seven years at Metz, where he honed his skills in oratory and politics, before returning to Paris and establishing his reputation as a great preacher. By the early 1660s, Bossuet was preaching regularly before the court of King Louis XIV at Versailles. He was appointed tutor to the Dauphin in 1670 and elected to the Académie Française a year later. In 1681, he was appointed Bishop of Meaux, a position he held until his death. Bossuet was a strong advocate of political absolutism and the divine right of kings.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Later in his life, he was also involved in the controversies over Gallicanism and Quietism, and supported the king...

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