Tales and Novels of J. de La Fontaine — Volume 03

This collection gathers three of La Fontaine’s early narrative gems, each weaving humor, romance, and a keen eye on courtly life. In “The Muleteer,” a modest coachman becomes caught in a daring nocturnal intrigue with a queen, revealing how love and ambition can blur the lines between servant and sovereign. The tale balances playful wit with subtle commentary on power and desire.

The companion pieces, “The Servant Girl Justified” and “The Three Gossips’ Wager,” turn the spotlight onto everyday characters navigating reputation and truth. A clever maid fights to clear her name, while three idle talkers gamble with rumors that threaten more than pride. Together they offer timeless reflections on honesty, social maneuvering, and the surprising strength of humble voices. Listeners will enjoy the lyrical prose and the gentle moral lessons that echo across centuries.