Corneille, full name Pierre Corneille, was a prominent French playwright born on June 6, 1606. He is best known for his tragic plays, which often explore themes of honor, love, and conflict. His most famous works include Le Cid, Horace, and Polyeucte, which have had a lasting impact on French literature and drama. Corneille is considered one of the founders of French classical tragedy, alongside Jean Racine and Molière. His writing style is characterized by its eloquent language and complex characters. Corneille's influence extends beyond his lifetime, as his plays continue to be performed and studied in theaters and academic institutions around the world.