The Fables of La Fontaine
 Translated into English Verse by Walter Thornbury and Illustrated by Gustave Doré

by Jean de La Fontaine

"The Fables of La Fontaine" by Jean de La Fontaine is a collection of fables published between 1668 and 1694. La Fontaine adapted tales from Western and Eastern sources into French free verse, creating 239 fables across twelve books. Originally aimed at adults, these humorous and ironical stories draw from Aesop, Indian sources, and contemporary events. Each fable offers keen insights into human nature through animal characters and pointed morals. The work became a cornerstone of French literature, memorized by generations of schoolchildren and celebrated for its artful storytelling.