Final answer:
Claude Debussy composed "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun" in 1894, a foundational piece marking the transition to musical modernism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The composition "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun" was composed by Claude Debussy in 1894. This piece is well-regarded as a milestone in the history of Western music, marking the transition to modernism and illustrating Debussy's innovative use of musical tonality and structure. Its evocative melodies and harmonies beautifully convey the languid atmosphere of Stéphane Mallarmé's poem, which inspired the work. The prélude is often celebrated for its seductive and dreamlike quality, capturing the essence of the mythical faun and his escapades.