Marie de France Quotes

A collection of quotes by Marie de France.

Marie de France was a medieval poet and author, believed to have lived during the late 12th century. Little is known about her personal life and background, and even her true identity is a subject of speculation. She is often referred to as Marie de France due to her description in the prologue of her works as a "Wace taint Maris." However, her actual name and place of birth remain a mystery.

Marie is best known for her collection of narrative poems known as "Lais," which were written in Anglo-Norman French. These poetic tales draw inspiration from Celtic legends and romantic themes, often focusing on chivalry, courtly love, and supernatural elements. The Lais gained considerable popularity during the Middle Ages and were highly influential in shaping the genre of romance literature.

Marie's exact contribution to the literary world remains uncertain, as she did not leave any explicit remarks about her work. However, through her writings, it is evident that she was a skilled poet with a deep understanding of storytelling and human emotions. Her works reflect a keen interest in the complexities of love, adventure, and morality, and her influence extended to later authors such as Chrétien de Troyes.

Despite the mystery surrounding Marie de France, her enduring works continue to captivate readers and offer insights into medieval literature and medieval society.