“What’s in a name?” Shakespeare asked. Here at the Claudel building, the name speaks volumes. Paul Claudel was a prominent French poet, playwright, and diplomat.
The Claudel building we are standing in front of is part of the INSA Lyon. INSA Lyon is a renowned French engineering grande école. Paul Claudel’s life was marked by significant events. He was born in 1868 in Villeneuve-sur-Fère. His family’s frequent moves shaped his early life. These moves took him to Bar-le-Duc, Nogent-sur-Seine, and Wassy-sur-Blaise.
Claudel’s literary journey began in his youth. He first read “Illuminations” and “Une saison en enfer.” A profound experience at Notre-Dame on December 25, 1886, changed him. During the Vespers service, he experienced a moment of faith. This pivotal moment led to his sacramental return to the Church in 1890.
In 1887, Claudel wrote his first dramatic work, “l’Endormie”. In 1889, while preparing for the Foreign Affairs competition, he wrote the first version of “Tête d’or.” He joined a literary group including Marcel Schwob and Léon Daudet.
Claudel’s diplomatic career started in 1893. He was appointed vice-consul in New York. This marked the beginning of a long period of exile. He served in various posts including Boston and Shanghai. In China, he wrote “Connaissance de l’Est.”
In 1906, Claudel married Reine Sainte-Marie-Perrin in Lyon. Following the wedding, he returned to China with his wife. He resided in Pékin and Tianjin where he wrote several odes.
Claudel’s travels continued. He was appointed to Prague in 1909. Later, he served as consul in Frankfurt. The war forced him to Bordeaux. In 1917, he went to Rio de Janeiro as minister plenipotentiary. He later served as minister in Denmark and ambassador in Japan.
In 1927, Claudel was appointed ambassador to the United States. He negotiated the Briand-Kellogg Pact. He bought the Château de Brangues. From 1928, his work largely consisted of commentaries on Scripture.
Claudel’s diplomatic career concluded in Brussels in 1935. He was elected to the Académie française in 1946. Paul Claudel died in 1955 in Paris. He is buried in Brangues.
Claudel’s work touches on religion and art. His plays include “Tête d’or,” “Le Repos du septième jour,” and “Partage de midi.” His lyrical works are equally important. Claudel aimed to cover as much space in the Christian world as Goethe did in the pagan world.
The life of Paul Claudel embodies a blend of diplomacy, faith, and artistic expression. The Claudel building stands as a testament to his enduring legacy. It inspires students to pursue knowledge with the same passion. It encourages them to embrace a global perspective. It fosters creativity and innovation. As you continue your journey, remember the spirit of Paul Claudel. Let his dedication to both the earthly and the divine guide your path.