Joris-Karl Huysmans
French author, wrote Against Nature

Born
February 5th, 1848
177 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1907
117 years ago — 59 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
France
Links & References
A prominent 19th-century French author and critic, contributed significantly to the Symbolist and Decadent movements. Published the novel 'À rebours' (Against Nature) in 1884, which became a defining work of the Decadent literary movement. Explored themes of aesthetics, morality, and spirituality through a detailed and often controversial narrative style. Worked as a literary critic for various publications and engaged deeply with contemporary art and literature, influencing multiple generations of writers and artists.
Wrote the novel 'À rebours'
Influenced the Symbolist movement
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