Henry de Montherlant is one of France’s most prolific authors. His major works seem to provoke antagonism and admiration in equal measure; the ideas, tone and images in his writing are often unbearable or overly complex for the uninitiated. “Most characteristic of all, he has the disconcerting habit of speaking in largely interchangeable terms about his main subjects — war, sex, art, sport and morals” (John Cruickshank, 1961: 57). His output is impressive, to say the least, comprising dozens of novels, plays and collected essays, as well as innumerable articles, poems, volumes of correspondence and autobiographical works. His aristocratic roots gave him a (perceived) sense of entitlement and superiority, whilst leading him to strive for excellence in demanding physical pursuits…
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Citation: Boothroyd, Edward. "Henry de Montherlant". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 15 July 2011 [https://www.litencyc.com/php/speople.php?rec=true&UID=3167, accessed 21 November 2024.]
