The French novelist Alain-Rene Lesage was the writer of the novel Gil Blas, which was published in 1715. Lesage is considered to be one of the most influential authors of the 18th century and his works are still widely read today. Gil Blas is a picaresque novel that follows the adventures of its titular character as he moves through different social classes. Lesage's writing style is known for its wit and humor, making it a classic of French literature.