Regnier

Regnier, Mathurin (1573-1613), French satirical poet, was a nephew of Desportes the poet, and probably derived his poetical tastes from him. His father did not approve of his verse-making, and, as he was of too violent a character to be controlled, he went to Rome in the suite of Cardinal de Joyeuse. On the death of his uncle in 1606 he inherited a little property and, though he obtained ecclesiastical orders, led a scandalous life. His knowledge of human nature is second only to Moliere's among French writers. His best known productions are his brilliant satires. His works were published in 1608.