Jean de La Fontaine was born on July 8, 1621 in Château-Thierry, France. He was raised in a wealthy bourgeois family and received a formal education in both religion and law. However, despite his parents' wishes for him to pursue a career in either of these fields, La Fontaine discovered his true passion for literature at a young age.
La Fontaine began his writing career as a poet, drawing inspiration from the works of classical authors such as Aesop and Horace. In 1669, he published his first novel, entitled Les amours de Psyche et de Cupidon, which brought him critical acclaim and established his reputation as a talented writer.
However, La Fontaine is best known for his Contes and Fables, a collection of moralistic stories and poems that were highly popular during the seventeenth century. These works often featured anthropomorphized animals engaging in witty and satirical dialogue, reflecting La Fontaine's keen insight into human nature and society.
Despite his literary success, La Fontaine's personal life was marred by marital difficulties. He entered into an arranged marriage with Marie Hericart, with whom he had one son. However, the couple lived largely separate lives, and La Fontaine struggled with financial instability throughout his life.
La Fontaine's legacy as a writer and fabulist has endured for centuries. His works continue to be studied and appreciated for their lyrical quality and timeless themes, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest French writers of the seventeenth century.
Although he faced numerous challenges and setbacks in his personal life, La Fontaine's dedication to his craft and his commitment to pursuing his creative vision have left an indelible mark on the world of literature.