Who is king cophetua?

King Cophetua is a legendary figure from English folklore, often associated with a story that inspired various artistic works, including poetry and paintings. He is best known as a king who falls in love with a beggar woman, defying social norms and expectations. This tale is famously recounted in the poem "The Beggar's Opera" by John Gay and has been depicted in works by artists like Edward Burne-Jones. The story symbolizes themes of love transcending social class and the transformative power of affection.