Sophie Volland

friend of Diderot

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

Sophie Volland was a significant figure in the life of Denis Diderot, the chief editor of the Encyclopédie during the Age of Enlightenment. Diderot formed an attachment with Volland in 1755, which lasted for over two decades. Their relationship was built on shared interests and a deepening friendship. Diderot's correspondence with Volland provides valuable insights into his personality, ideas, and the intellectual society of his time, including interactions with other prominent thinkers like the Baron d’Holbach and Ferdinando Galiani. Volland's death in February 1784 deeply affected Diderot, who passed away a few months later.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

Denis Diderot
Mature career
In 1755 he met Sophie Volland, with whom he formed an attachment that was to last more than 20 years. The liaison was founded on common interests, natural sympathy, and a deepening friendship. His correspondence with Sophie, together with his other letters, forms one of the most fascinating documents…
Read More
In 1755 he met Sophie Volland, with whom he formed an attachment that was to last more than 20 years. The liaison was founded on common interests, natural sympathy, and a deepening friendship. His correspondence with Sophie, together with his other letters, forms one of the most fascinating documents…
Read More