Classical Period (17th century):
* Pierre Corneille: Known for his tragedies, particularly "Le Cid" and "Horace." He helped establish the rules of French classical tragedy.
* Jean Racine: A master of tragedy, famous for plays like "Phèdre" and "Andromaque." His work was known for its powerful language and psychological depth.
* Molière: The most celebrated comedic playwright of the French classical period. His works like "Tartuffe," "Le Misanthrope," and "The School for Wives" satirized social hypocrisy and human folly.
19th Century:
* Victor Hugo: A literary giant who wrote the iconic play "Hernani," which sparked a famous battle between classicism and romanticism in theatre.
20th Century:
* Jean-Paul Sartre: A leading figure in existentialist theatre, known for plays like "No Exit" and "Dirty Hands."
* Albert Camus: Another existentialist playwright, famous for "The Just Assassins" and "Caligula."
* Samuel Beckett: A playwright who revolutionized theatre with his absurdist plays like "Waiting for Godot" and "Endgame."
Contemporary Period:
* Yasmina Reza: A contemporary playwright known for her witty and insightful comedies like "Art" and "God of Carnage."
Ultimately, choosing a single "major playwright" for French theatre depends on the criteria used. For impact on the development of dramatic form, Corneille, Racine, and Molière might be considered. For sheer popularity and recognition, Molière and Hugo stand out. For innovation and artistic influence, Beckett, Sartre, and Camus might take precedence.
It's worth noting that many other playwrights have also significantly contributed to French theatre, and this list only provides a starting point for exploring the rich and varied history of French dramatic literature.