Chrétien de Troyes

Chrétien de Troyes was a 12th-century French poet and novelist, best known for his pioneering works of Arthurian literature. He is credited with developing the chivalric romance genre, blending adventure, courtly love, and ideals of knighthood. His notable works include "Erec and Enide," "Cligés," and "Lancelot, or The Knight of the Cart," which explore themes of love, honor, and heroism. Chrétien's storytelling and character development influenced later literature and helped shape the legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, leaving a lasting impact on medieval literature and culture.