Jean de La Bruyère's "The 'Characters'" offers a penetrating glimpse into 17th-century French society through a series of insightful character sketches. More than just portraits, these observations serve as sharp social commentary and satire, dissecting the manners and morals of the era with wit and precision. La Bruyère's work delves into timeless aspects of human nature, exploring themes relevant to moral philosophy and social dynamics. This collection provides a fascinating window into the intricacies of human relationships and the complexities of social structures. A cornerstone of French literature, "The 'Characters'" continues to resonate with readers interested in historical perspectives on sociology and the enduring power of keen observation. This meticulously prepared print republication makes this classic work accessible for study and enjoyment.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.