Claude, a French writer, born in 1661, became a Jesuit in 1679, and died at Paris in 1737. There are many works of this author, which show deep penetration and accurate judgment; the principal of which is, Un Cours des Sciences, &c.; that is, "A Course of Sciences upon principles new and simple, in order to form the language, the understanding, and the heart, 1732," in folio. This collection includes an excellent "French grammar upon a new plan; a philosophical and practical treatise upon eloquence; an art of poetry," which, however, is not reckoned the best part of this miscellany; "elements of metaphysics; an examination into vulgar prejudices; a treatise of civil society; and an exposition of the proofs of religion:" all full of reflections, just as well as new. He was the author of other works, in verse and prose, of which no great account is had; and it is remarkable, that his style in both is rather easy than accurate and correct, notwithstanding the precepts in his "Grammar," which is really philosophic.