MONTREAL — Antonine Maillet — novelist, playwright, and proud Acadian — has died at the age of 95. Her publisher, Lemeac, announced the news Monday on social media, saying the author had died overnight at her home in Montreal. Born in New Brunswick, she became the first Canadian writer to receive the prestigious French literary […]
Antonine Maillet, a renowned author, playwright, and advocate for Acadian culture, has passed away at the age of 95. Born in Bouctouche, New Brunswick, she was the first Canadian to win the prestigious Prix Goncourt in 1979 for her novel *Pelagie-la-Charette*. Her work celebrated the Acadian language, folklore, and traditions, earning her widespread acclaim. She was named a Companion of the Order of Canada and received numerous other honors for her contributions to literature and Acadian identity. Her play *La Sagouine* became a cultural landmark, and she was praised by leaders like Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for her unwavering advocacy for Acadians. Maillet's legacy remains a testament to her dedication to preserving and promoting Acadian heritage.
