Emmanuelle Arsan

Marayat Andriane (1967)

Emmanuelle Arsan (born Marayat Rollet-Andriane; January 19, 1932 – June 12, 2005) was a French-Thai author, best known for her novel Emmanuelle. Her work is often associated with the erotica genre.

Early Life

Marayat Rollet-Andriane was born in Bangkok, Thailand. She was of mixed Thai and French descent. Her early life in Thailand and her subsequent move to France played a significant role in shaping her literary career.

Career

Emmanuelle Arsan is best known for her novel Emmanuelle, which was first published in 1959. The novel is a tale of sexual exploration and liberation, and it became a significant work in the erotica genre. The book was initially published anonymously, and it was later revealed that Marayat Rollet-Andriane was the author.

The success of Emmanuelle led to a series of sequels and adaptations, including the famous film series starring Sylvia Kristel. These films further cemented Arsan's reputation as a leading figure in erotic literature.

Personal Life

Marayat Rollet-Andriane was married to Louis-Jacques Rollet-Andriane, a French diplomat. The couple's open relationship and their experiences in the diplomatic circles of Asia and Europe influenced much of Arsan's writing.

Legacy

Emmanuelle Arsan's work has had a lasting impact on the erotica genre. Her novel Emmanuelle remains a classic, and the film adaptations have introduced her work to a broader audience. Despite the controversies surrounding her work, Arsan is celebrated for her contributions to literature and her role in challenging societal norms regarding sexuality.

Selected Works

• Emmanuelle (1959)
• Emmanuelle 2 (1974)
• Emmanuelle and the Antivirgin (1975)
• Emmanuelle: The Joys of a Woman (1976)

See Also

• Erotica
• Emmanuelle (film series)
• Sylvia Kristel