France Who is Antoine De Saint-Exupéry?
Antoine Jean-Baptiste Marie Roger De Saint-Exupéry, known to the world as Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (June 29, 1900 – July 31, 1944), was a French writer and aviator whose works continue to captivate readers nearly eight decades after his death. Born into an aristocratic family with a strong military heritage, he found himself drawn early on to the skies.
De Saint-Exupéry’s formative years were shaped by his privileged upbringing in Lyon, France. His father, Jean Marc De Saint-Exupéry, was a descendant of the French nobility, and Antoine’s mother, Marie De Saint-Exupéry, instilled in him an appreciation for literature and adventure from a young age.
By 1921, at just twenty-one years old, Saint-Exupéry began his career as a pilot with the Aéropostale airline. This period was crucial to his development both personally and professionally; it exposed him to the vast expanses of North Africa and South America, providing fodder for his future writings. In 1931, he published Vol de Nuit, an autobiographical work that offered a poignant view into the life of a mail pilot.
The rise of Saint-Exupéry’s literary career paralleled his aviation achievements. He became a well-known figure in French literature by the late 1930s, with works such as Terre des Hommes (1939) and Lettres à un Ami sur la Vie (Letters to a Friend on Life). However, it was his posthumously published children’s book, The Little Prince, that brought him international acclaim. Written during the early years of World War II while he lived in New York City, this allegorical tale remains one of the best-selling books ever written.
Throughout his life, Saint-Exupéry was married to Consuelo Suncin Sandoval de Saint-Exupéry. Although their marriage was tumultuous at times, it endured despite periods apart and multiple affairs on both sides. They had no children but were close with Marie-Madeleine De Saint Exupéry, Antoine’s sister.
Tragically, Saint-Exupéry’s life ended as dramatically as his career began—with a crash landing. On July 31, 1944, while on a reconnaissance mission during World War II, he disappeared over the Mediterranean Sea near Corsica and was presumed dead. His body has never been recovered.
Today, Saint-Exupéry’s legacy is more vibrant than ever before. His writings continue to be translated into numerous languages around the world, inspiring new generations of readers with their profound meditations on human connection and existentialism.
Common Questions
What was Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's family background?
De Saint-Exupéry came from an aristocratic French family. His father, Jean Marc De Saint-Exupéry, had military roots, and his mother, Marie De Saint-Exupéry, fostered a love for literature in him.
When did Antoine de Saint-Exupéry start flying?
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry began his career as a pilot with the Aéropostale airline in 1921, at age twenty-one. This period was crucial for shaping both his literary and aviation careers.
What are some of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's most famous works?
Saint-Exupéry is best known for 'Vol de Nuit' (Night Flight), published in 1931, and the children's book 'Le Petit Prince' (The Little Prince), written during World War II.
Was Antoine de Saint-Exupéry married?
Yes, he was married to Consuelo Suncin Sandoval de Saint-Exupéry. Their relationship was marked by periods of separation and infidelity but they remained together until his death in 1944.
How did Antoine de Saint-Exupéry die?
Saint-Exupéry died on July 31, 1944, when his aircraft disappeared over the Mediterranean Sea during a reconnaissance mission for the French Resistance. His body was never recovered.
