La Princesse De Clèves
1678
La Princesse de Clèves, published anonymously in 1678 by Madame de La Fayette, is a pioneering work of historical and psychological fiction. Set in the French court during the reign of Henri II, the novel follows mademoiselle de Chartres, who becomes the titular princess, as she navigates love, ambition, and personal virtue amidst political intrigue. Notable for its realistic portrayal of historical figures and events, it is considered one of the first modern psychological novels and a foundational piece of Western historical fiction.
