Which French author published the 1756 novella that inspired the best-known Beauty and the Beast tradition?

Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont published the 1756 novella that inspired the best-known Beauty and the Beast tradition.

Her version, “La Belle et la Bête,” appeared in the collection Le Magasin des enfants, or The Young Misses' Magazine. It was written as an educational tale for young readers and became far more influential internationally than the earlier, much longer version by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve.

Leprince de Beaumont's story centers on a merchant's daughter who lives with the Beast after her father takes a rose from the Beast's garden. Its shorter structure emphasizes moral education, kindness, and the importance of looking beyond outward appearance.

The familiar fairy tale has since been adapted into films, operas, ballets, television programs, and stage musicals. Disney's 1991 film is one of the most prominent modern adaptations, but its story ultimately belongs to a long literary tradition rather than originating with Disney.