Joachim du Bellay was a prominent French poet and critic of the 16th century, born in 1522 in Liré, France, and died in 1560 in Paris. He is best known for his contributions to the Pléiade, a group of poets who sought to elevate French poetry by emulating the classics and distancing it from medieval influences.
Joachim du Bellay was born into a noble but impoverished family. His early education was under the tutelage of his uncle, René du Bellay, who later became Bishop of Le Mans. This connection provided du Bellay with opportunities for education and patronage. He studied at the Collège de Coëffort in Paris and later at the University of Poitiers, where he was exposed to humanist ideas.
Du Bellay's most influential work, "La Deffense et Illustration de la Langue Francoyse," published in 1549, is a manifesto for the Pléiade. In this work, he advocates for the enrichment of the French language through the adoption of classical forms and themes, the creation of neologisms, and the purification of French from foreign influences, particularly Italian and Latin.
Du Bellay's poetry is characterized by its lyricism, the use of the sonnet form, and a deep sense of nostalgia. His influence extended beyond his lifetime, shaping the course of French literature by promoting a more classical and refined approach to poetry. His works inspired subsequent poets, including Pierre de Ronsard and other members of the Pléiade.
Today, du Bellay is remembered as a key figure in the evolution of French poetry. His advocacy for a more sophisticated French language and literature helped to establish the foundations for what would become known as French Classicism. His works continue to be studied for their historical significance and poetic beauty.