Eça de Queirós was a prominent Portuguese writer born on November 25, 1845, in Póvoa de Varzim. He is best known for his novels that explore social issues and critique the society of his time. His most famous works include The Maias and The Relic, which reflect his keen observations of human behavior and the complexities of Portuguese life in the 19th century. Eça de Queirós was also a diplomat, serving in various countries, including France and England. His experiences abroad influenced his writing style and themes, making him a key figure in the Realism literary movement. He passed away on August 16, 1900, leaving a lasting legacy in Portuguese literature.