Encyclopaedias and reference works

This collection contains 100 of the most celebrated quotes by the French poet, translator and art and literary critic Charles Baudelaire (1821 - 1867), best known for his controversial collection of poems 'Les Fleurs du Mal' ('The Flowers of Evil') and the quote, "The devil's finest trick is to persuade you that he does not exist."Charles-Pierre Baudelaire (1821 - 1867) was a French poet, translator and literary and art critic who is best known for his controversial collection of poems 'Les Fleurs du Mal' (1857; 'The Flowers of Evil').His poems exhibit a mastery of rhythm and rhyme that were based on the Frenchman’s observations of real life. ‘La Chevelure’ (‘The Head of Hair’), ‘Le Voyage’ (‘The Trip’) and ‘Le Cygne’ (‘The Swan’) are widely acknowledged as poetic masterpieces.Themes of sex, death, lesbianism, metamorphosis, industrialisation, lost innocence and alcohol, caused controversy at the time but also garnered Baudelaire many fans, and his original style has influenced a generation of poets including Arthur Rimbaud and Stéphane Mallarmé.Baudelaire is also responsible for many famous quotes such as, ‘The devil's finest trick is to persuade you that he does not exist’, ‘Be always drunken. Nothing else matters...’ and ‘Strangeness is a necessary ingredient in beauty.’

‘100 Quotes by Cicero’ is a collection of thoughts and reflections from a man who rose to power and fell to grace. Musing on life, philosophy, and power, Cicero employs his epistemological beliefs to create incisive musings that are as relevant today as they were in Ancient Rome. A fascinating and quotable book for those with an interest in history or philosophy.Born into a wealthy family, Marcus Tullius Cicero (106BC – 46BC) was a Roman statesman, lawyer, Academic Skeptic, philosopher, and writer. After completing his education in both Greece and Rome, he served in the army before establishing himself as a powerful legal orator and representative.A firm believer in the republican values of the time, Cicero was instrumental in quashing the Second Catilinarian Conspiracy, and was subsequently invited by Caesar to join the First Triumvirate. However, Cicero turned on the Emperor and was soon exiled.After being granted a pardon, he made an enemy of Mark Anthony and was eventually executed. His most famous works include the poems ‘On His Consulship,’ and ‘On His Life and Times.’

‘100 Quotes by Stefan Zweig’ is a collection of reflections by one of the most underrated writers of the 20th Century. Often witty, and always intelligent, this collection sees Zweig reflecting on everything from human nature to love. Eminently quotable, it’s an excellent read for those who want an introduction to a man known for his compassion and pacifism.Born in Vienna, Stefan Zweig (1881 – 1942) was an acclaimed poet, essayist, dramatist, and writer. After studying philosophy at the University of Vienna, Zweig established a friendship with Theodor Herzl, the editor of the ‘New Free Press’ magazine. Herzl accepted many of Zweig’s early works for publication.Jewish by birth, Zweig left Austria, as the Nazis began their climb to power in the 1930s. First living in London, he then moved to Bath, before fleeing to the States under the shadow of ‘Operation Sea Lion,’ which saw him named as a person to be detained immediately after the UK had been conquered.Eventually, he moved to Brazil with his wife where, in 1942, they took their own lives. His literary legacy is one of humanity, simplicity, and compassion, including works such as ‘Amok,’ and ‘The Royal Game.’

French novelist, journalist and poet, Anatole France (1844-1924), was elected to the Académie Française and won the 1921 Nobel Prize for Literature. Best known for the novels ‘Le Crime de Sylvestre Bonnard’ (1881) and ‘La Rôtisserie de la Reine Pédauque’ (1893), he was a prolific writer responsible for many famous sayings, including "If a million people say a foolish thing, it is still a foolish thing," and "Nine tenths of education is encouragement."This is collection is a compilation of Anatole France’s most celebrated quotes.Anatole France, a pseudonym for Jacques Anatole Thibault (1844-1924), was a French novelist, journalist and poet. He was elected to the Académie française and won the 1921 Nobel Prize for Literature in recognition of his "brilliant literary achievements." France achieved his first commercial success with the novel ‘Le Crime de Sylvestre Bonnard’ (1881) and published his most celebrated work, ‘La Rôtisserie de la Reine Pédauque’ ('At the Sign of the Reine Pédauque') in 1893. His many other works include, 'Le Puits de Sainte Claire’ (1895) ('The Well of Saint Claire') ‘Le Lys rouge’ (1894) ('The Red Lily'), ‘La Révolte des Anges’ (1914) ('The Revolt of the Angels') and a biography of Joan of Arc (1908).

‘100 Quotes by Leo Tolstoy’ is a collection of thoughts, reflections, and musings from the mind of one of Russia’s greatest writers. Covering a wide range of subjects, such as society, war, love, and life, these quotes vary between the pithy and the witty to the thoughtful and maudlin. An ideal book for those who want to dip in and out of the mind of one of the world’s most famous literary figures.A colossus of Russian literature, Leo Tolstoy (1828 – 1910) was born into aristocracy. However, after losing both his parents by the age of four and his grandmother and aunt a year later, Tolstoy and his siblings were sent to Kazan to live with another aunt, where he was home-schooled.After leaving university without a degree, Tolstoy lived a dissolute life of drinking, gambling, and womanising. Despite this, he maintained a love for literature and his first outing, ‘Childhood,’ was published in ‘The Contemporary’ magazine.The works that have defined his career are ‘War and Peace,’ and ‘Anna Karenina,’ both of which have been hailed as the zenith of realist literature. He was nominated three times for the Nobel Prize for Literature but never won. Many of his works have been adapted for the silver screen, including ‘Anna Karenina,’ starring Helen McCrory.

Frenchman André Paul Guillaume Gide (1869 – 1951), was an author and winner of the 1947 Nobel Prize in Literature. He published over fifty books, including 'Les Nourritures terrestres' (1897) ('Fruits of the Earth'), ‘Les Caves du Vatican’ (1914) ('Lafcadio’s Adventures'), ‘La Porte étroite’ (1909) ('Strait is the Gate'), 'La Symphonie pastorale' (1919), and the experimental ‘Les Faux Monnayeurs’ (1926). However, he is best known for ‘Corydon’ (1911), which he believed to be his most important work.This collection contains 100 of André Gide’s most celebrated quotes.André Paul Guillaume Gide (1869–1951) was a French author and winner of the 1947 Nobel Prize in Literature. Described as "France's greatest contemporary man of letters," Gide was known for his fiction and autobiographical works. He published over fifty books, including 'Les Nourritures terrestres' (1897) ('Fruits of the Earth'), ‘Les Caves du Vatican’ (1914) ('Lafcadio’s Adventures'), ‘La Porte étroite’ (1909) ('Strait is the Gate'), 'La Symphonie pastorale' (1919), and the experimental ‘Les Faux Monnayeurs’ (1926) ('The Counterfeiters'). However, the Frenchman claimed ‘Corydon’ (1911), was his most important work. In it, he used evidence from naturalists, historians, poets, and philosophers to back up his belief that homosexuality was not ‘unnatural’, arguing it was more natural than exclusive heterosexuality, which he believed to be a union created by society.

Child prodigy, Blaise Pascal (1623-1662) was a French mathematician, physicist, inventor, philosopher and writer, whose work and wisdom still resonates to this day.This is a collection of 100 of the Frenchman's most celebrated quotes.Blaise Pascal (1623-1662) was a French mathematician, physicist, inventor, philosopher, and writer. A child prodigy, he laid the foundation work for today’s modern theory of probabilities and formulated what came to be known as Pascal’s principle of pressure.The Frenchman also corresponded with Pierre de Fermat on probability theory, strongly influencing the development of modern economics. He is also one of the first two inventors of the mechanical calculator, having started pioneering work on calculating machines called Pascal's calculators or Pascalines.

Peppered with pithy and wry observations, ‘100 Quotes by Anton Chekhov’ offers an insight into one of the greatest literary minds of the 20th Century. Covering a variety of topics, you may find yourself surprised as to how many of his musings have worked their way into everyday life. A superb book for those who want to get to know the man behind works such as ‘The Seagull,’ and ‘Uncle Vanya.’Anton Pavlovich Chekhov (1860 – 1904) was born in Taganrog, in Southern Russia. The son of a grocer, and the third of six children, he was educated at the local Greek School. After Chekhov’s father became bankrupt, the family lived in poverty, before fleeing to Moscow to avoid debtor’s prison.After writing a series of tales for various publications, Chekhov started to gain critical attention. However, it was a trip to the Ukraine that put the literary wheels in motion. After the publication of his novella, ‘The Steppe,’ he was commissioned to write a play, resulting in ‘Ivanov.’Over the course of his career, Chekhov wrote more than 200 short stories and 14 plays. Works, such as ‘The Seagull,’ ‘The Cherry Orchard,’ and ‘Uncle Vanya,’ have been performed on stages across the world. Chekhov's works have also been adapted to the screen numerous times. The 2018 adaptation of 'The Seagull' stars Annette Bening, Elisabeth Moss and Saoirse Ronan.

‘100 Quotations by Karl Marx’ is a collection of thoughts and theories by one of the most progressive thinkers of the 19th Century. Often witty, sometimes wry, but always thoughtful, you’ll find quotable lines on everything from politics to philosophy. A superb read for anyone with an interest in the founder of communism or those who want an introduction to one of the most complex minds in history.A philosopher, political activist, and revolutionary thinker, Karl Marx (1818 – 1883) was born in Germany. He was educated by his father until the age of 12 when he attended Trier High School. From there, he enrolled at the University of Bonn. While he wanted to study philosophy and literature, his father insisted that he study law.After moving to Berlin in 1836, Marx became enamoured of the teachings of George Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, a renowned German philosopher. After achieving a PhD from the University of Jenna, he moved to Cologne and worked as a journalist for the left-wing ‘Rheinische Zeitung’ newspaper, which allowed him to hone his socialist beliefs.Considered to be one of the founders of communism, and the eponymous progenitor of Marxism, Marx completed a number of important works in his lifetime, including ‘The Poverty of Philosophy,’ and ‘Value, Price, and Profit.’

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1900-1944) was a French writer, aviator, adventurer, poet and author, whose love of flying influenced many of his works. He is best known for his story ‘Le Petit Prince’ ('The Little Prince') published in 1943, ‘Wind, Sand and Stars’ (1939), ‘Southern Mail’ (1929), ‘Flight to Arras’ (1942), ‘Letter to a Hostage’ (1942), and ‘Night Flight’ (1931).This collection contains 100 of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s most celebrated quotes.Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1900-1944) was a French writer, aviator, adventurer, poet and author, best known for his story ‘Le Petit Prince’ ('The Little Prince') published in 1943, which became a modern classic. His novel ‘Wind, Sand and Stars’ (1939), was also a huge success, winning the Académie Française's Grand Prix du Roman (Grand Prize for Novel Writing) and the United States National Book Award. His other works include a memoir called ‘Southern Mail’ (1929), ‘Flight to Arras’ (1942), ‘Letter to a Hostage’ (1942), and ‘Night Flight’ (1931) which won the prestigious Prix Femina.

Packed with thoughts, reflections, witticisms, and lines from his extensive body of work, ‘100 Quotes by Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais’ is a superb read for fans of this accomplished writer.Ideal for dipping in and out of, readers of this collection will find themselves surprised as to how many of his sayings have found their way into modern parlance.A welcome addition to any coffee table.The son of a watchmaker, Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais (1732 - 1799) lived many lives. In addition to being an inventor, musician, and arms dealer, he also worked as a spy for Louis XV and Louis XVI.However, he was perhaps best known as a playwright. Following his rejection for the post of consul to Spain, Beaumarchais began writing short farces, before dipping his pen into the worlds of opera and theatre plays.His most famous works include ´Eugenie´, ´The Barber of Seville´, and ´The Marriage of Figaro´. His life story was adapted for film in 1996, as ‘Beaumarchais the Scoundrel,’ starring Fabrice Luchini.

‘100 Quotes by Pierre Corneille; is a collection of thoughts, witticisms, and observations from one of France’s greatest playwrights.With Corneille’s sharp mind taking centre stage, there are plenty of quotes worth committing to memory. Those familiar with his works will spot lines from his plays, making this a great read for fans of Corneille’s.A welcome addition to any book collection, it’s ideal for dipping in and out of.Considered to be the founder of French tragedy, Pierre Corneille (1606 – 1684) was born in Normandy. While he was expected to become a lawyer like his father, Corneille's exposure to acting at college sowed the seeds for his literary career. After a short stint as a judicial officer, Corneille began writing plays and his first, a comedy called ‘Mélite,’ was performed in Paris to critical acclaim.Six years later, under the employ of Cardinal Richelieu, he was to write his first tragedy, ‘Médée.’ Subsequently, Corneille wrote his finest play, ‘Le Cid,’ which was adapted for the screen long after his death, starring Charlton Heston and Sophia Loren. His final play, ‘Suréna,’ was published in 1674.

‘100 Quotes by Paul Valéry’ is a collection of thoughts, witticisms, and observations by one of France’s greatest poets.Packed with dry, pithy, and often-touching sayings about subjects such as art, music, letters, and writing, it puts his singular approach to life, front and centre.A superb book for a leisurely browse, this is a welcome addition to any library or coffee table.Although born in Sète, Paul Valéry (1871 – 1945) was raised and educated in Montpellier. While at college, he studied law but was introduced to the works of the likes of Edgar Allan Poe and Stéphane Mallarmé, both of whom had a significant influence on his singular, pithy style of writing.Best known as the last of the French symbolist poets, Valéry published around 100 poems, including ‘La Jeune Parque.’ Verses from his works have been cited by subsequent authors such as in ‘Blood Meridian,’ by Cormac McCarthy (author of ‘The Road,’ adapted for film, starring Viggo Mortensen) and ‘The Wanting Seed,’ by Anthony Burgess (author of ‘A Clockwork Orange,’ starring Malcolm McDowell).

‘600 Quotations from the Great 18th Century Writers’ is a collection of inspiring thoughts and reflections from six of the greatest literary minds of all time.During this time, society was experiencing a cultural upheaval, with more emphasis being placed on happiness and the pursuit of knowledge.While these quotes might be over 200 years old, they bear as much relevance today as they did when they were first coined.A superb read for dipping in and out of.Born in Geneva, Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712 – 1778) was a spearhead in the European Enlightenment movement. Montesquieu (1689 – 1755) was a Frenchman, whose writing had a huge influence on political systems. Also born in France, Denis Diderot (1713 – 1784) was a writer and central figure in the Age of Enlightenment.Scottish economist, Adam Smith (1723 – 1790) wrote treatises on morality and economics. German physicist, Georg Christoph Lichtenberg (1742 – 1799) satirised superstition and wrote extensively about natural phenomena. Pierre Beaumarchais (1732 – 1799) was a French playwright, spy, diplomat, and watchmaker.

‘600 Quotations from French Philosophy’ is a collection of thoughts and reflections from six of the greatest French thinkers of all time.France’s influence on Western philosophy cannot be understated, from the Age of Enlightenment through to the founding of modern philosophy.Many of these quotes have as much resonance today as they did when they were first coined.Superb for dipping in and out of, there are more than a few thoughts in this book worth memorising, and even more that are sure to inspire.Montesquieu (1689 – 1755) was born in Aquitaine, and his writing had a huge influence on political systems. Voltaire (1694 – 1778), a Parisian, was one of the founders of the French Enlightenment movement. Born in Langres, Denis Diderot (1713 – 1784) was a writer and another important figure in the Age of Enlightenment.Gaston Bachelard (1884 – 1962) was born in Bar-sur-Aube and went on to become an important scientific philosopher. Born in Geneva, Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712 – 1778) was a spearhead in the European Enlightenment movement. Blaise Pascal (1623 – 1662) was born in Clermont-Ferrand and is best remembered as a fideistic philosopher.

‘100 Quotes by Jules Renard’ uncovers the famous French author and member of the literary organisation, Académie Goncourt.Famous for his poems, plays and short stories, his work spans the famous ‘Poil de carotte’. The English novelist Julian Barnes’ 2008 memoir ‘Nothing to be Frightened Of’ remains a proud homage to Renard, indicative of his continuous influence.His thoughts and musings transcend the page and can be found around the world, on road signs, as well as in books. A must-read collection for those looking for wit and wisdom today, ‘100 Quotes by Jules Renard’ is the perfect coffee table book.Pierre-Jules Renard (1864 – 1910) was a French author and member of the Académie Goncourt, most famous for the works 'Poil de carotte' (Carrot Top) and 'Les Histoires Naturelles' (Nature Stories).An impressive and adaptable author, Renard wrote poems, short stories and plays alongside his novels. He remains today a hugely influential French figure during the turn of the 19th century

‘100 Quotes by Anne Frank’ is a poignant collection of thoughts and observations from the world’s most famous diarist.Touching, observational, and often funny, these quotes create a collage of a teenager whose world had been turned upside down. One of the most important documentarians of the Second World War, Frank’s views and feelings are both timeless and aligned with a darker chapter in humanity’s history.A fascinating and thought-provoking read, it's a great addition to any library.Born in Frankfurt to a Jewish family, Anne Frank (1929 – 1945) went on to become one of the most important figures in literary history. When she was four years old, Adolf Hitler’s Nazi Party took power in Germany. As a result, Frank’s father relocated the family to Amsterdam.Due to the Nazi invasion, she and her family were to go into hiding in a small annexe above her father’s offices. During the two years they hid there, Frank wrote a daily journal, which was to become her lasting legacy.Her diary has inspired numerous books and films, including ‘The Diary of Anne Frank,’ starring Shelley Winters and ‘My Best Friend Anne Frank,’ starring Josephine Arendsen.

‘100 Quotes by Edmond and Jules de Goncourt’ is a collection of reflections and thoughts by the literary world’s most unexpected collaborators.Touching on everything from religion and the nature of the self to history and poetry, the brothers’ ideas are strikingly similar and timelessly resonant.An ideal book for dipping in and out of, these quotes will provide any reader with food for thought and the tools with which to spark an interesting conversation.Known as the ‘Goncourt Brothers,’ Jules (1830 – 1870) and Edmond de Goncourt (1822 – 1896) were siblings, collaborative, and virtually inseparable authors. Born in France, they went on to become significant figures in the Naturalist movement and in the world of art criticism.Their works focussed on the use of the senses, creating novels that eschewed literary logic in favour of a sensory experience. Their most famous work, ‘Germinie,’ threw the spotlight on the double life of their servant, Rosie.

´100 Quotes by Marcel Proust’ is a compendium of thoughts, observations, and reflections by one of France’s greatest writers.Pithy, witty, barbed, but often touching and thoughtful, readers will discover another dimension to this noted novelist, most famous for his novel ´In Search of Lost Time´.His philosophy mainly focused on how people should be appreciative of their circumstances.A superb book for dipping in and out of, this will make a welcome addition to any book collection.Considered to be one of the most important writers of the 20th century, Valentin Louis Georges Eugène Marcel Proust (1871 – 1922) was born in Paris. The son of a notable physician and epidemiologist, he was educated at the Lycée Condorcet.Proust’s sexuality was the subject of much speculation, and although he never confirmed it, he explored the subject of homosexuality in many of his works, including ‘In Search of Lost Time.’Some of his works have found themselves adapted for film, such as ‘Swann in Love,’ starring Jeremy Irons, while the writer himself was to be lampooned by the comedy troupe Monty Python.

‘150 Quotes by Friedrich Nietzsche: Great Philosophers & Their Inspiring Thoughts’ is a collection of reflections and ideas by one of the greatest minds the world has ever seen.Sometimes poetic, often ironic, and always incisive, these quotes are taken from various periods in Nietzsche’s life and give an insight into the way his ideas formed and solidified.A superb book for dipping in and out of, and ideal for anyone with an interest in the human condition.Born in Röcken, Friedrich Nietzsche (1844 – 1900) would grow to become one of the leading figures in the worlds of philosophy and modern thought. An outstanding pupil throughout his childhood, he later went on to the University of Leipzig.Despite not having finished his dissertation or his degree, Nietzsche’s progress was such that his classics professor recommended him for a professorship at the University of Basel. However, the outbreak of the Franco-Prussian War cut his teaching career short.Between 1879 and 1889, Nietzsche lived as a virtual recluse, devoting himself to writing. His most famous work, ‘Thus Spake Zarathustra’ established him as one of the greatest thinkers of the 20th Century.

While ‘600 Mystical and Spiritual Quotations’ is a superb book for dipping in and out of, it also offers practical spiritual advice from six of the most forward-thinking minds of all time.Ideal for self-reflection and personal improvement, these are more than just quotes; they can be tools through which to better yourself.A welcome addition to any library or coffee table.Mahatma Gandhi (1931 – 1948) was an Indian lawyer, who became a pioneer of non-violent resistance to civil oppression. Gautama Buddha (480 BCE – 400 BCE) was an aristocrat who eschewed materialism, in favour of spiritual reflection. He is the founder of Buddhism. Born in Tibet, the first Dalai Lama (1391 – 1474) started life as a shepherd, before studying as a monk and receiving a vision during meditation.Confucius (551 BCE – 479 BCE) was born in China. His profound teachings established Confucianism, which promotes personal and societal morality. Martin Luther King (1929 – 1969) was a Baptist minister, who became the most important figure in the American Civil Rights movement. Mother Teresa (1910 – 1997) was an Albanian-Indian Catholic nun, who was canonised for her missionary work.

‘100 Quotes by Heraclitus of Ephesus’ is a superb read for those with an interest in philosophy or the human condition.Insightful, esoteric, and incisive, 21st-century readers will be taken with the relevance of observations made more than 2,500 years ago.Whether you’re looking for philosophical inspiration or to further your self-development, this is a superb book for dipping in and out of.While Heraclitus of Ephesus (535BC – 475BC) might be one of the more enigmatic figures in Greek philosophy, his impact is no less profound. From what we know, he was one of the pioneers of the idea of an ‘ordered universe,’ but was equally preoccupied with the concept of equality between all people.However, it was his focus on the balance between the elements that was to be his critical undoing. Heraclitus’ belief that each element has its place in the order of things may have made him unpopular with the cognoscenti, but it also paved the way for those following in his philosophical footsteps, such as Socrates and Plato.

Featuring some of the most brilliant and notable sayings from a revolutionising world, ´100 Quotes by Charles Louis de Montesquieu´ is the perfect companion for readers looking to be inspired by one of the most influential figures in history.French judge, historian, and political philosopher, Montesquieu remains a leading figure in the French Revolution and a major influence on the Founding Fathers of the United States. Responsible for devising a government separated into branches of power, his political theories remain in practice in many constitutions throughout the world today.Uncover his thoughts and musing with this impressive collection from the man who lay the foundations for the world as we know it. ´100 Quotes by Charles Louis de Montesquieu´ is perfect for fans of Hugh Jackman's ´Les Miserables´.Charles Louis de Montesquieu (1689-1755) was a French judge, man of letters, historian, and political philosopher. His most influential work, 'The Spirit of the Law', divided French society into three classes, thereby erasing the feudal system.Montesquieu is remembered today as a defining influence on the Founding Fathers of the United States.

‘100 Quotes by Jean Racine’ uncovers one of the greatest playwrights of 17th-century France.Famous for the works of ‘Phèdre’, ‘Andromaque’, and ‘Athalie’, Racine’s writings are renowned for their beauty, elegance, and style.Peppered with psychological insight, his quotes invite readers to peek behind the scenes at one of Europe’s most celebrated dramatists - and thinkers - of the age.An ideal book for dipping in and out of, these quotes will provide any reader with food for thought and the tools with which to spark an interesting conversation.Jean Racine (1639-1699) was a French dramatist and one of the greatest playwrights of 17th-century France, along with Molière and Corneille. An important literary figure in the Western tradition and world literature, Racine primarily wrote tragedies, along with the occasional comedy, such as 'Les Plaideurs'.He remains today a hugely influential figure in world literature during 17th century France.

Often surprising and always original, ‘100 Quotes by Stendhal’ is a superb book for those who like to challenge the conventional.Stendhal was well known for his outspoken views on life, and this book cherry-picks some of his most entertaining and incisive thoughts.A superb read for those looking to challenge their own point of view, and those who want to get to know this outstanding author a little better.The pen-name of Marie-Henri Beyle, Stendhal (1783 – 1842) was born in Grenoble. The son of a barrister, his mother died when he was seven years old, which had a lasting impact on his mental health and his writing.An aspiring playwright, he travelled through Italy, before returning to Paris, where he married the actress, Mélanie Louason. However, after the fall of the French Empire, he returned to Italy, making a home for himself in Milan and embarking on a literary career.His greatest works, including ‘La Chartreuse de Parme,’ and ‘Le Rouge et le noir’ are noted for their views on morality and politics while indulging his hatred for the concept of boredom.

Featuring some of the most brilliant and notable sayings from a revolutionising world, ‘100 Quotes by Nicolas de Chamfort’ paints a vivid mosaic of life during and after the French Revolution.Having thrown himself into the Republican movement and fight to overthrow the last king of France, Chamfort was one of the first to have entered the Bastille as it was triumphantly stormed.Secretary to Louis XVI’s sister and of the notary Jacobin Club, he went on to witness the dawn of a new era with the reign of Marat and Robespierre, underseeing the campaign towards universal men’s suffrage.Influencing and shaping one of the most defining moments of history, ‘100 Quotes by Nicolas Chamfort’ is a must-read collection for those interested in the figures, who lay the foundations for the world as we know it today.Nicolas de Chamfort (1741-1894) was a French writer and secretary to Louis XVI's sister, along with that of the Jacobin club. A strong defender of the Republican movement, his work reflects a turbulent time in France's history when society turned against the Monarchy.

‘100 Quotes’ by Georg Christoph Lichtenberg is an inspiriting collection of quotes from the German physicist and satirist.Lichtenberg was the first person in Germany to hold a professorship in experimental physics, and he was one of the originators of introducing experiments with equipment in lectures.Although he was most remembered for his research on electricity, Lichtenberg also became known for his cutting wit as a satirist, which often got him mixed up in many disputes.Georg Christoph Lichtenberg (1743-1799) was a German physicist, satirist, and Anglophile. As a physicist, Lichtenberg was the first person to hold a professorship explicitly dedicated to experimental physics in Germany.Lichtenberg is probably best known for the notebooks, called sudelbücher, that were posthumously published. These notebooks were seen as ‘waste books’ or ‘scrap books’ but they showcased his discovery of tree-like electrical discharge patterns, now called Lichtenberg figures.

‘100 Quotes by Molière’ is a compendium of thoughts and observations by one of the greatest minds of 17th-century France.Often witty, sometimes sharp, and occasionally touching, readers will find themselves getting a sneak peek inside Molière’s mind.A superb read, ‘100 Quotes by Molière’ is ideal for those with an interest in theatre and a wonderful book for dipping in and out of.One of France’s greatest dramatists, Jean-Baptiste Poquelin (1622 – 1673), better known by his stage name, Molière, was born in Paris. While his father fully intended for Molière to become a furnisher for the French Royal family, much like himself, Molière initially decided he wanted to work as an actor.However, after trying to establish a theatre company in Paris, spending some time in prison, and touring with a theatre troupe, Molière eventually turned his attention to writing plays. His first, ‘L’Étourdi; ou, les contretemps,’ was staged in Lyons in 1655. However, it was three years later, when performing his ‘Le Docteur Lamoureux' that Molière found fame, falling under the wing of the king’s brother, Phillipe.Although little is known about his later life, his plays are staged worldwide to this day. Many have been adapted for film and television, including ‘Don Juan,’ starring Jacques Weber.

´100 Quotes by Aeschylus´ unveils the musings of the originator of tragedy.With topics such as religion, life, love, and death taken to task, Aeschylus offers the 21st-century reader an insight into the thoughts and feelings of the Ancient Greeks. However, what is surprising is just how resonant many of those ideas are today.An outstanding book for those seeking bite-sized nuggets of timeless wisdom.Thought to have been born in Eleusis, Aeschylus (524BC – 456BC) is the subject of both myth and legend. According to the story, at the age of 26, he was working in a vineyard. During that time, he was visited by the Greek god Dionysus, who pointed him towards the theatrical art of tragedy.In addition to working as a playwright, he served in the Greek army, particularly in the wars against Persia, which heavily influenced his earliest works. When inducted into a secret cult surrounding the goddess, Demeter, Aeschylus revealed many of the sect’s mysteries in his scripts. As a result, he was accused of religious mockery, although acquitted at his trial.While he has set the template for tragedians to follow, many of his works have been adapted for film and TV. Perhaps the most notable is ‘Oresteia,’ starring Diana Rigg and Anton Lesser.

‘100 Quotes by Jean Giraudoux’ takes readers on a journey behind the scenes of one of the most important French dramatists of the period between World War I and World War II.A novelist, essayist, diplomat, and playwright, Giraudoux’s work features stylistic elegance and poetic fantasy – during a time when the world was far from at ease.An ideal book for dipping in and out of, this must-read collection is ideal for history buffs looking to uncover the greatest thinkers of an unprecedented period.Jean Giraudoux (1882-1944) was a French literary figure of immense might. A novelist, essayist, diplomat, and playwright, Giraudoux's dominant theme is the relationship between man and woman, or in some cases, between man and some unattainable ideal. He remains today a hugely influential figure within 19th-century literature.