Dictionary.net

A French poet (1763-1842). He made his debut with the comic opera "Peter the Great" (1790). For a few years he was judge and prosecuting attorney at Tours, and then was called to Paris to assist in organizing the primary-school system. He was a man of ancient Roman virtue, and his character is reflected in all his works. His comedies and comic operas (music by the first masters) were eminently successful as well in Germany as in France, particularly these: "The Abbe de l'Epee"; "The Two Days"; "Mme. de Sevigne". He also wrote "Stories for French Children" and "Counsels to my Daughter".