Honoré de Balzac was a French novelist and playwright who is considered one of the greatest writers of the 19th century. He is best known for his series of novels and stories collectively titled "La Comédie Humaine," which offers a panoramic view of French society in the early 19th century. Balzac's works often explore themes of ambition, power, and social class, and he is celebrated for his vivid characterizations and detailed portrayals of everyday life. His writing style and literary innovations have had a lasting impact on the development of the novel as a literary form.