El Caballero del León

Author of early Arthurian romances, Chretien de Troyes was born in France around 1150. Little is known about this important medieval writer. Chretien's poems can not be dated, except to say that they were written sometime in the second half of the twelfth century. Some of his other work has been lost or their authorship is disputed. Chretien's most famous works, "Lancelot" and "Perceval," have all the ingredients of Celtic legend, and pay homage to the Holy Grail. Chretien also composed a famous version of Tristan and Isolde. During his life, Chretien enjoyed the patronage of Marie de Champagne, the daughter of Philip of Flanders and Eleanor of Aquitaine. Although it is not confirmed, it is believed that he died in Paris in 1190.