Pierre-Jules Hetzel (1814-1886) was a renowned French publisher and editor, known for producing beautifully illustrated editions of classic novels, particularly the works of Jules Verne, which became highly sought-after by collectors.
Biography
Born in Chartres, France, Hetzel initially studied law in Strasbourg before venturing into the publishing world, founding his own company in 1837. He was responsible for publishing major French writers such as Honoré de Balzac, whose Comédie humaine began to appear in 1841, as well as the works of Victor Hugo and Émile Zola. In 1843, Hetzel created the Nouveau magazine des enfants ("New Children's Magazine"), which became a significant platform for children's literature. A staunch republican, he briefly served as chief of staff to Alphonse de Lamartine, who was then the Minister of Foreign Affairs, before relocating to Belgium after the 1851 coup that led to the rise of the Second Empire. During his time in exile, Hetzel continued his editorial work, secretly publishing Hugo’s Les Châtiments, a critical pamphlet targeting the regime.
Following the political shifts in France, Hetzel returned home and continued publishing works by authors like Proudhon and Baudelaire. He also released an influential edition of Charles Perrault's fairy tales, illustrated by Gustave Doré, and founded the Bibliothèque illustrée des Familles ("The Illustrated Family Library"), which was later renamed Le Magasin d'éducation et de récréation ("The Education and Recreation Magazine") in 1864. Hetzel's vision was to create educational materials for all ages, bringing together authors, illustrators, and scientists to foster learning and creativity.
