Vie de Rancé is a fascinating biography that delves into the life of Jean-Baptiste de Rancé, the founder of the Trappist order. Written by François-René de Chateaubriand, this book offers a detailed and insightful look into the spiritual journey of Rancé, who gave up a life of luxury and privilege to pursue a life of solitude, prayer, and austerity.

Chateaubriand skillfully captures the complexities of Rancé's character, painting a portrait of a man torn between his worldly desires and his deep yearning for spiritual fulfillment. The author's prose is elegant and evocative, drawing readers into the inner world of Rancé and allowing them to experience the highs and lows of his spiritual quest.

One of the strengths of this biography is the way in which Chateaubriand situates Rancé within the historical and religious context of his time. Through detailed descriptions of the political and religious landscape of 17th-century France, the author helps readers understand the challenges and pressures that Rancé faced as he embarked on his journey of self-discovery and devotion.

Overall, Vie de Rancé is a thought-provoking and beautifully written biography that offers valuable insights into the life of a complex and enigmatic figure. Chateaubriand's meticulous research and sensitive portrayal make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of spirituality, history, and personal transformation.

Book Description:
Hagiographie. Vie de Rancé, 1626-1700. La Trappe. Noblesse de robe. Abbé mondain. Partisan du cardinal de Retz, ennemi de Mazarin. Les réflexions toujours intéressantes de Fr.-R. de Chateaubriand dans son style inimitable. Histoire. Religion. Société. Molinisme et Jansénisme. Quiétisme. Ninon de Lenclos, Bossuet, Fénelon, Ménage, Mabillon, Leibnitz, Madame de Maintenon, Saint-Simon, La Bruyère. Père de Lachaise, Madame de Chartres. La Palatine, Abbé Nicaise, Madame Guyon, J.B. Thiers. Louis XIV, Jacques II d’Angleterre, Charles X de France, et Bonaparte… etc… - Summary by Christiane Jehanne