Thornton Wilder was an American playwright and novelist, born on April 17, 1897, in Madison, Wisconsin. He is best known for his works that explore the human experience, particularly through the lens of small-town life. His most famous plays include Our Town and The Skin of Our Teeth, both of which have received critical acclaim and are frequently performed. Wilder's writing often blends realism with elements of fantasy and philosophical themes. He won three Pulitzer Prizes for Drama and one for Fiction, showcasing his versatility as a writer. Wilder's influence on American theater and literature continues to be felt today.