Marie de La Fayette was a French novelist born in 1634, known for her significant contributions to early modern literature. She is best recognized for her novel, La Princesse de Clèves, published in 1678, which is considered one of the first psychological novels. Her work explored themes of love, honor, and the complexities of human emotions within the context of the French court. La Fayette's writing style was innovative for her time, blending realism with intricate character development. She played a crucial role in the emergence of the French novel as a literary form, influencing future authors and shaping the narrative techniques used in literature. Her legacy continues to be celebrated in literary studies today.