Guy de Maupassant, born Henri René Albert Guy de Maupassant, was a prolific and influential French writer of the 19th century, renowned for his mastery of the short story form. Born into a middle-class family in Normandy in 1850, Maupassant's literary prowess was nurtured under the tutelage of Gustave Flaubert, a prominent figure in French literature. His debut short story, "Boule de Suif," published in 1880, quickly established him as a formidable talent. Throughout his career, Maupassant penned over 300 short stories, six novels, three travel books, and a volume of verse, earning him the title of one of the fathers of the modern short story. His works, such as "The Necklace," "Bel-Ami," and "Une Vie," are celebrated for their vivid realism and keen insight into human nature. Maupassant's contributions to literature have solidified his status as one of France's greatest writers, leaving an indelible mark on the literary world.