La Fontaine's verse fables turned the traditional folktales derived from Aesop and a range of Oriental sources into some of the greatest, and best-loved, poetic work in French. His versions of stories such as 'The Hare and the Tortoise' and 'The Wolf and the Lamb' are witty and sophisticated, satirizing human nature in miniature dramas in which the outcome is always unpredictable. The behaviour of both animals and humans is usually centred on deception and cooperation (or the lack of it), as they cheat and fight each other, arguing about life and death, property and food, in an astonishing variety of narrative styles. The fables have long been popular with all ages, though their ironic take on contemporary society in French aristocratic circles is best appreciated by adults. This new translation by Christopher Betts matches the original in inventiveness and subtlety. It includes half of the fables first published in twelve books between 1668 and 1693, across the full range of subjects and themes. The fables are illustrated with a selection of Gustave Dor'e's majestic engravings, and an introduction offers insights into La Fontaine's life and literary artistry.

About the Author
La Fontaine (1621-95) followed a career as a poet after early training for the law and the Church. He came under the wing of Louis XIV's Finance Minister, Nicolas Fouquet, and later enjoyed the patronage of the Duchess of Orl'eans and Mme de La Sabli`ere. His Fables were widely admired, and he was already regarded in his lifetime as one of the greatest poets of his age.

Reviews
Christopher Betts's new versions [of the Fables] provide a fine introduction. He translates into easy and pleasing rhyme ... Betts is a respectful translator, avoiding jarring anachronisms and preserving the good humour and wit of the original. You feel you are in the hands of someone who understands La Fontaine and finds him congenial ... The volume itself, illustrated with engravings by Gustave Dore, is beautifully produced and a pleasure to read. * Maya Slater, Times Literary Supplement *
This beautiful book is enhanced with glorious pictures by Gustav Dore the stories are readable... it's perfect. This is an edition of a classic work that will enrich anyone's collection. * Books Monthly *
Betts's translation does an excellent job of conveying the lightness and grace of the original pieces. Even those overly familiar with many of these myths will find it difficult not to be charmed by how well these verses flow ... This excellent new translation should appeal to most students of literature and anyone with an interest in fables * Library Journal *



Book Information
ISBN 9780199650729
Author Jean de La Fontaine
Format Hardback
Page Count 272
Imprint Oxford University Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 472g
Dimensions(mm) 222mm * 142mm * 23mm