Who was Marie de France, and which kinds of works did she write?

Marie de France (flourished 12th century) was the earliest known French woman poet and a significant figure in Anglo-Norman literature. Although little is known about her life, it is widely believed that she wrote her works while in England.1

Her literary contributions include:

• Lais: She wrote 12 narrative lays—short verse narratives—composed in octosyllabic rhymed couplets. These works, which she claimed were based on Breton originals, often blended realistic and fairy-tale elements while exploring complex themes of love and contemporary life.12
• Fables: She authored a collection of Aesopic and other fables known as Ysopets, which she stated were translated from an English source.12
• Religious Works: She also wrote L’Espurgatoire Seint Patriz ("St. Patrick’s Purgatory"), a version of a Latin text by Henry of Saltrey.1

Her lais were likely dedicated to Henry II of England, reflecting her connection to the royal court.12