Racine, Jean. The greatest French dramatist of the classical school. Was born in La Ferte-Milon in 1639, and educated at Port Royal. His ode on the marriage of Louis XIV (1660) was rewarded by a pension from the king. He first exhibited his genius in "Andromaque," which was followed by a brilliant series of tragedies, closing with "Phedre." His single comedy, "Les Plaideurs," appeared in 1668. In 1677 he was led by religious motives to cease writing for the stage but, in 1691, he published a sacred drama, "Athalie," which is by many considered his masterpiece. Died 1699.

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