Fantômas is a fictional character created by French writers Marcel Allain and Pierre Souvestre in 1911. He is a master criminal known for his ability to change his appearance and evade capture. The character became popular in literature, film, and other media, symbolizing the archetype of the enigmatic villain. The stories featuring Fantômas often revolve around his elaborate schemes and the efforts of his nemesis, Jules Maigret, a determined detective. The character has inspired numerous adaptations, including films, comics, and television series, making him a significant figure in the genre of crime fiction.