Selected Fables by Jean De La Fontaine
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 works 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 behavior of both animals and humans is usually centered 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 's majestic engravings, and an introduction offers insights into La Fontaine's life and literary artistry.SKU | GOR003227032 |
ISBN 13 | 9780486295749 |
ISBN 10 | 0486295745 |
Title | Selected Fables |
Author | Jean De La Fontaine |
Series | Dover Dual Language French |
Condition | Very good |
Binding Type | Paperback |
Publisher | Dover Publications Inc. |
Year published | 2003-03-28 |
Number of pages | 224 |
Cover note | Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary. |
Note | This is a used book - there is no escaping the fact it has been read by someone else and it will show signs of wear and previous use. Overall we expect it to be in very good condition, but if you are not entirely satisfied please get in touch with us |