Marie de France was a medieval poet who lived in the late 12th century. She is best known for her collection of narrative poems called lais, which are short stories often featuring themes of love, chivalry, and adventure. Her works were written in Old French and are among the earliest examples of literature by a woman in the Middle Ages. Little is known about her life, but she is believed to have been born in France and later moved to England. Marie's writings reflect the cultural influences of both regions, showcasing her unique perspective. Her contributions have made her an important figure in the history of literature.