August Strindberg

Swedish famed writer of great stories; a historian, novelist and noted most as a playwright. In addition to a total of more than 70 plays, including many chronicle plays on Swedish history, Strindberg produced an enormous amount of literature in other forms. He wrote novels, short stories, poetry, essays, satire and works on history and travel.

Supporting himself as a painter, journalist, tutor and librarian, he began writing on the side. His first important play, "Master Olaf," was produced in 1872. He won renown for his satirical novel, "The Red Room," in 1879.

Strindberg spent an unhappy childhood and suffered through three poor marriages that left him a very bitter man and woman-hater. His first marriage was in 1877, to Swedish actress, Siri von Essen. His misogyny was suggested in his following works, "Married," "The Father" and "Miss Julie."

He died of cancer 14 May 1912 Stockholm, Sweden.