Madame Leprince de Beaumont, born Marie-Jeanne L'Heritier on April 26, 1711, in La Rochelle, France, is best known for her contributions to children's literature during the 18th century. She passed away on September 6, 1780, in Geneva, Switzerland. As a writer, she primarily focused on fairy tales and moral stories, becoming a significant figure in the evolution of fairy tale literature.

In her early life, Beaumont was the daughter of a wealthy merchant. She received a solid education, which was somewhat unusual for women of her time. This background allowed her to develop a love for literature and storytelling. After her father's death, she moved to Paris, where she became acquainted with many literary figures, including the influential philosopher and writer, Voltaire. This exposure to the literary world helped shape her future career as a writer.

Beaumont's literary career took off in the mid-18th century when she began publishing fairy tales. Her most notable work, "La Belle et la Bête" (Beauty and the Beast), was published in 1740 and remains one of the most enduring fairy tales in Western literature. This tale not only captivated readers with its enchanting narrative but also conveyed moral lessons about inner beauty and character. Beaumont's adaptation of existing folk tales into accessible and engaging stories for children helped establish her as a pioneer in children's literature.

On a personal level, Madame Leprince de Beaumont had a complex life. She married at a young age but experienced difficulties in her marriage, leading to her eventual separation. Despite the challenges she faced, she remained dedicated to her writing, often using her experiences and observations to inform her stories. Throughout her life, she emphasized the importance of education and moral values, reflecting the social and cultural context of her time. Beaumont's legacy as a groundbreaking author continues to resonate, particularly in the realm of fairy tales, where her influence is still felt today.