Ernest Renan occupies a distinguished place in the unique pantheon of writers, philosophers, historians, and Orientalist geniuses that graced French literature in the nineteenth century. His fame, influence, and wealth are immense. Renan is one of the most deserving figures of attention and study in French literature, for he is unique in his multifaceted thought and diverse talents. He is a philosopher who addresses major themes, a writer of captivating style, a critic of penetrating insight, and a historian of visionary perspectives. He combined the depth of poetic feeling and the breadth of knowledge with the breadth of his mind, freedom of thought, and the radiance of his morals and holiness.