Quinault, Philippe (3 June 1635, Paris; 26 November 1688, Paris), librettist, was born of humble origins but made an early start in the theatre when his mentor, Tristan l’Hermite, persuaded the royal troupe of actors to accept his first work. Les Rivales proved to be a successful comedy, and the 18-year-old dramatist was encouraged to continue to write for the theatre. He produced three comedies, six tragicomedies, and a tragedy by the time that he had reached his 25th birthday. His Amalasonthe…