Angier

Angier, GUILLAUME VICTOR ÉMILE, a French dramatist, was born at Valence, September 17, 1820, and was educated as a lawyer. In 1844 he composed a drama in verse, La Ciguë, which was played at the Odéon with success. Other dramas in verse are Gabrielle (1849), Diane (1852), La Jeunesse (1858), and Paul Forestier (1868). Originally criticised as a leader of the 'school of good sense,' he ultimately dealt unsparingly with the vicious tendencies of modern life, though never forsaking the idealist standpoint. His later dramas are mostly in prose, and may be said to belong to the comedy of intrigue. Notable works are Le Mariage d'Olympe (1855); Le Gendre de M. Poirier (1854), written in partnership with Jules Sandeau; Les Lionnes Pauvres (1858); Les Effrontés (1861); Le Fils de Giboyer (1862); Maitre Guérin (1869); and Les Fourrehambault (1874), his masterpiece. In a number of his works he was a collaborateur with other dramatists. In 1858 he became a member of the Academy, and in 1868 Commander of the Legion of Honour. He died 28th October 1889. His Théâtre complet fills 4 vols. (1876-77).