"La Princesse de Clèves" is a classic French novel written by Madame de La Fayette (Mme. de Lafayette). Published in 1678, it is considered one of the earliest novels in Western literature and a significant work of French classical literature. The story is set in the 16th century and revolves around the character of Mademoiselle de Chartres, a young noblewoman who becomes the Princess of Clèves after her marriage. The novel explores themes of love, duty, and the conflicts between personal desires and social obligations. It is particularly known for its portrayal of the inner emotional conflicts and moral dilemmas of its characters. "La Princesse de Clèves" is celebrated for its psychological depth and its impact on the development of the novel as a literary form. It is often studied for its historical and cultural significance in French literature.