Alexandre Dumas (1802-1870) was a prolific and celebrated French author whose works have been translated into nearly 100 languages. He is one of the most widely read French authors in history. Born in Villers-Cotterêts, France, to a retired general who was the son of a French nobleman and a Haitian slave, Dumas's mixed heritage and unique family history influenced his life and work.
Dumas was a master of the historical novel, using his rich imagination to bring history to life. He was a pioneer of the serial novel, publishing his books in installments in newspapers, a practice that made his stories accessible to a wide audience and created a fervent public following. While "The Three Musketeers" is his most famous work, he also wrote other classics, including "The Count of Monte Cristo," "The Man in the Iron Mask," and "The Black Tulip." Dumas was a captivating figure in his own right, known for his flamboyant personality and extravagant lifestyle. His literary legacy continues to inspire countless adaptations and remains a cornerstone of adventure literature worldwide.