Where Did Oscar Wilde Stay in Paris?

By Anna Duncan

Paris has been a city of inspiration for many writers, poets, and artists. One such writer who found Paris to be a muse was the famous Irish playwright and novelist Oscar Wilde.

Wilde’s time in Paris was filled with wonder and creativity, and he spent a significant portion of his life living in the City of Love. But where exactly did Oscar Wilde stay in Paris?

The Early Years

In 1878, at the age of 24, Wilde moved to Paris for the first time. He settled into a small apartment on Rue Lafitte in the ninth arrondissement, which is now known as the Pigalle neighborhood. This area was famous for its nightlife, cabarets, and artists’ studios.

During this time, Wilde immersed himself in French culture and language. He spent his days studying at the Bibliothèque Nationale de France and exploring the city’s art galleries and museums.

The Later Years

In 1897, after serving two years of hard labor for homosexuality charges in England, Wilde moved to Paris again. This time he stayed at the Grand Hotel on Boulevard des Capucines. The hotel was situated near the Place Vendome and had a reputation as one of the most luxurious hotels in the city.

Wilde lived in Paris until his death in 1900 at the age of 46. During this time, he wrote some of his most famous works such as “The Importance of Being Earnest,” “Salome,” and “The Picture of Dorian Gray.”

Legacy

Today, visitors can still visit places that were significant to Oscar Wilde’s life in Paris. For example, there is a plaque on Rue Lafitte marking where he lived during his first stay in Paris. The Grand Hotel has also preserved its connection with Wilde with room #16 named after him.

Wilde’s love affair with Paris is evident in his works, and the city remains an essential part of his legacy. His time spent in Paris inspired him to create some of the most iconic works in English literature, and his influence can still be felt today.

Conclusion

Oscar Wilde’s time in Paris was a significant period in his life, as it allowed him to immerse himself in French culture and language. He stayed at various places during his time in the city, including a small apartment on Rue Lafitte and the luxurious Grand Hotel on Boulevard des Capucines. Today, visitors can still visit these places and experience the same inspiration that Oscar Wilde did over a century ago.