Marcel Proust (1871-1922) was a French writer best known for his monumental work À la recherche du temps perdu (In Search of Lost Time), a seven-part novel exploring memory, time, and identity. Through intricate narrative techniques, including the stream of consciousness, Proust delves into the psychological depths of his characters, examining how past experiences and sensory impressions shape human identity. His work is notable for its meticulous detail, lyrical prose, and the exploration of themes like love, jealousy, and social class. Proust’s concept of “involuntary memory,” famously illustrated by the episode of the madeleine, revolutionized narrative structure and has had a lasting impact on literature. Often regarded as one of the greatest novelists of the 20th century, Proust's work has influenced countless writers and remains a cornerstone of modern literature, celebrated for its profound insights into human consciousness and the passage of time.