La Pléiade was a group of seven French poets in the 16th century who aimed to elevate the French language and literature. They sought to create a distinct French literary identity, drawing inspiration from classical works and emphasizing the importance of poetic form and style. Key figures included Pierre de Ronsard and Joachim du Bellay. The movement is named after the Pleiades star cluster, symbolizing the unity and brilliance of the poets. La Pléiade's influence extended beyond poetry, impacting the development of the French language and inspiring future generations of writers and thinkers in Renaissance France.