Marie-Henri Beyle, known by his pen name Stendhal, was a prolific 19th-century French writer celebrated for his analytical prowess in delving into the psychology of his characters, particularly in the realms of love and ambition. Born on January 23, 1783, in Grenoble, France, and passing away on March 23, 1842, in Paris, Stendhal's legacy endures through his masterful narrative style, characterized by its realism and intricate character developments, which was somewhat avant-garde for his time. His most distinguished works, 'Le Rouge et le Noir' ('The Red and the Black') and 'La Chartreuse de Parme' ('The Charterhouse of Parma'), demonstrate a vivid portrayal of the human condition and critique of the society of his era. Although Stendhal wrote essays, travel literature, and autobiographical works, his novels are what placed him among the forefathers of the psychological novel. 'The Greatest Works of French Literature: 100+ Novels, Short Stories, Poetry Collections & Plays' is a testament to the wide-ranging influence of French literature of which Stendhal's contributions are a cornerstone. His work laid foundational stones for realism and has influenced generations of authors after him. Stendhal's literary style, encapsulated by his sharp observation and narrative craft, remains celebrated for its revolutionary imprint on French literature.