Final Answer:
The author of the poem "Prelude to an Afternoon of a Faun" that later inspired Debussy's piece of the same name is b) Stéphane Mallarmé.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stéphane Mallarmé, the esteemed French poet, penned the poem "Prelude to an Afternoon of a Faun" in 1876. This evocative and symbolist poem became a source of inspiration for the renowned French composer Claude Debussy, who later composed a musical piece bearing the same name. Debussy's composition, commonly known as "Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune" in French, was first performed in 1894. The synergy between Mallarmé's poetic imagery and Debussy's musical interpretation is a testament to the interconnectedness of arts during the Symbolist movement.
Stéphane Mallarmé's poetry, including "Prelude to an Afternoon of a Faun," is celebrated for its rich symbolism and nuanced expression. The poem served as a muse for Debussy's orchestral work, and the collaboration between literature and music highlights the cross-pollination of artistic ideas during the late 19th century. The transcendent quality of Mallarmé's words found resonance in Debussy's composition, creating a masterpiece that transcends individual art forms and showcases the profound interplay between poetry and music.
So correct option is b) Stéphane Mallarmé.