Is it possible for a statue to embody a life of poetry, politics, and provincial charm? Right here we stand before the Victor de Laprade Statue. It is a monument to a man who juggled these roles with remarkable dedication.
Victor de Laprade was born Pierre Martin Victor Richard de Laprade in Montbrison in 1812. He became a celebrated French poet, critic, and politician. He was a man of letters who left an indelible mark on French culture.
Laprade’s early life was steeped in academic pursuits. He distinguished himself at a lycée in Lyon. Later, he was granted a mission by Monsieur Salvandy to conduct research in Italian libraries. His early works included “Les Parfums de Madeleine” in 1839. “La Colère de Jesus” followed in 1840.
In 1847, Laprade’s career took a significant turn. He was appointed professor of French literature at Lyon. His influence grew. In 1858, he was elected to the Académie Française. He took the seat previously held by Alfred de Musset. The election was competitive. Laprade won in the fourth round with 17 votes.
Laprade’s poetry was deeply influenced by Chateaubriand and Lamartine. His work reflected his strong religious beliefs and royalist sentiments. He was also a close friend of philosopher Antoine Blanc de Saint-Bonnet. He dedicated several poems to him.
His diverse body of work includes “Poèmes évangéliques” in 1852 and “Les Symphonies” in 1855. He also wrote “Idylles héroïques” in 1858 and “Les Voix du silence” in 1864. His creativity spanned decades.
In 1871, Victor de Laprade entered the political arena. He served as a deputy for the Rhône region until 1873. His political career was marked by his conservative views. He also faced challenges. In 1861, he was removed from his teaching post after writing a poem that satirized the Second Empire.
The Victor de Laprade Statue is a bronze figure. It shows the poet standing tall. The Diana, an archeological and historical society, initiated a subscription in 1881 to erect the statue. They wanted to honor Laprade’s contributions. He was born in Montbrison. He was also a member of the Diana society. Jean Bonnassieux sculpted the statue. The Gruet family, Parisian founders, cast it. The statue was finished in 1886. It was inaugurated in June 1888 in Montbrison’s Jardin d’Allard.
Victor de Laprade died in Lyon in 1883. He was 71 years old. His legacy lives on through his writings and this statue. It reminds us of his contributions to French literature and political thought.
So, as we stand before the Victor de Laprade Statue, let’s remember the multifaceted life of this poet, professor, and politician. He embodied the spirit of his time. He left a lasting impact on French culture.