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Racine (JEAN an eminent French)

JEAN, an eminent French dramatic poet; born in La Ferté Milon, France, Dec. 22, 1639, and was educated at Port Royal. In 1664 he produced his tragedy of "La Thébaïde," which was followed in 1665 by "Alexandre." 1667 appeared his " placed him far above all his confame was still further increased by the fame was still further increased by the and other tragedies. In 1677 appeared desire of Louis XIV. and Madame de ther" and "Athalie." Besides his dra- RACK matic works, he wrote "Canticles and Hymns for the use of St. Cyr," the "History of Port Royal," etc. In 1673 he was received into the academy, and continued to enjoy the highest favor at court; but having offended the king by a too free use of his pen in drawing up a memorial on the distresses of the people, he lost favor. He died April 21, 1699.