Abstract: The term “literary madmen” or “literary lunatics” (“fou littéraire”) cannot be defined except as a function of the perspective taken to define it. It is, therefore, a dynamic notion requiring a diachronic approach. In this regard, two milestones have been identified. The first by Charles Nodier is characterized by its conservative position, while the second by Gérard de Nerval by its attempt at a historicization mixed with fiction. Today, the term “hétéroclite” (regarded preferable) is used to refer to those individuals whose ideas contradict science.
