Rodolphe Girard
Rodolphe Girard (1879-1956) was a notable Canadian writer and journalist from Trois-Rivières, who made significant contributions to the literary landscape in the early twentieth century. He began his education at l'Académie commerciale du Plateau before pursuing art studies at Collège Saint-Louis in Montréal. He gained prominence as a writer for major newspapers such as La Patrie and La Presse, ultimately becoming head writer for Time in Ottawa. Among his most significant works is "Mosaïque" (1902), a collection that captivated Montreal's audience, while his later work, "Marie Calumet" (1904), sparked controversy and led to his condemnation by the archbishop of Montreal due to its bold themes. Following this, Girard was forced to leave Montreal for Ontario, where he continued to write. His service during World War I as a lieutenant colonel earned him the Military Cross and recognition as a chevalier of the Legion of Honour. Girard also held notable roles, including president of the Canadian Institute and translator for the House of Commons debates. He passed away in Canada in 1956, leaving behind a complex legacy intertwined with Canadian literature and journalism.
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Subject Terms
Rodolphe Girard
Writer
- Born: April 24, 1879
- Birthplace: Trois-Rivières, Quebec, Canada
- Died: March 29, 1956
- Place of death: Richelieu, Quèbec, Canada
Biography
Rodolphe Girard was born in Canada in the late nineteenth century. He studied at l’Académie commerciale du Plateau, a commercial Catholic academy. He later studied art at Collège Saint-Louis, Montréal. For many years Girard wrote articles for newspapers La Patrie as well as La Presse. Later he became the head writer for Time in Ottawa.
One of Girard’s most-important literary works was Mosaïque (1902), which was a collection of articles and plays that amazed the people of Montreal. His most-controversial literary work was probably Marie Calumet (1904). It was condemned by the archbishop of Montreal upon its publication in 1908 because the female protagonist reveals her nudity to a crowd of dinner guests. As a result, Girard was no longer allowed to practice journalism in Montreal. He was exiled to Ontario, where he continued his work.
In 1914, Girard joined the Canadian army, where he reached the rank of lieutenant colonel. He was named president of the Canadian Institute before his retirement in 1941. He was also the translator for debates of the House of Commons and the civil servant to the secretary of state. Girard was made chevalier of the Legion of Honour and was awarded the Military Cross by the French government for his service in World War I. Girard died in Canada in 1956.