Jean de La Fontaine

Jean de La Fontaine: The Master of Fables

Jean de La Fontaine is a renowned French fabulist and poet, celebrated as one of the most widely read French writers of the 17th century. His work, particularly his Fables, has left an enduring legacy and continues to be enjoyed by readers of all ages.

Life and Career

• Birth: July 8, 1621, Château-Thierry, France.
• Death: April 13, 1695, Paris, France.
• Early Life: Born into a bourgeois family, La Fontaine initially pursued a career in forestry. However, his true passion lay in literature.
• Marriage: He married Marie Héricart in 1647, but the couple separated in 1658.
• Literary Career: La Fontaine's literary career flourished in Paris, where he made valuable connections and produced his most significant works. His Fables, a collection of moralistic tales told through animal characters, were published in several volumes between 1668 and 1694.

Literary Contributions

• Fables: La Fontaine's Fables are his most famous work. These tales, often with animals as protagonists, offer insightful commentary on human nature, society, and morality. His ability to blend wit, humor, and wisdom has made his fables timeless classics.
• Other Works: In addition to his fables, La Fontaine wrote other works, including Tales and Novels in Verse and translations of classic texts.

Legacy

• Influence: La Fontaine's work has influenced countless writers and has been translated into numerous languages. His fables have become a staple in literature education worldwide.
• Recognition: He was eventually admitted to the prestigious French Academy, a testament to his literary stature.

Key Points

• Master of the fable genre.
• Known for wit, humor, and moralistic insights.
• Enduring impact on French and world literature.
• Works continue to be studied and enjoyed today.