Jean de La Fontaine, born on July 8, 1621, in Château-Thierry, France, is renowned for his timeless fables. As a prominent poet of the 17th century, La Fontaine's works were integral to French literature. Crowned as the master of fables, his first collection, "Fables Choisies," was published in 1668. These fables, often inspired by Aesop and other classical sources, cleverly used anthropomorphized animals to convey moral lessons and societal critiques. La Fontaine was not just a fable writer; he also crafted poems, plays, and novels, though his fables remain his most celebrated contribution. His skillful use of verse and wit captivated both children and adults, offering layers of meaning that appealed to diverse audiences. Despite facing some financial struggles, La Fontaine's literary prowess earned him a seat at the French Academy in 1684. His legacy endures, highlighting themes of human nature and morality, until his death on April 13, 1695, in Paris.
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