Women of Modern France (illustrated)woman: In All Ages and in All Countries Vol. 7 (of 10)

A historical account written in the late 19th century. This work explores the roles and influences of women in France from the 16th to the 18th centuries, categorizing them as queens, mistresses, and educated women who shaped art and politics. The text delves into the complexities of their characters, contrasting virtuous queens with politically influential mistresses, and highlights their impact on French society and culture. The opening of the work introduces the author’s premise, emphasizing the intrinsic social instincts of French women and how these have manifested across different eras. Thieme begins by categorizing women into three classes based on their societal roles—queens representing virtue, mistresses embodying political intrigue, and educated women advancing arts and literature. He sets the tone by discussing figures such as Anne of Brittany and Louise of Savoy, illustrating how these women navigated and influenced a male-dominated political landscape through a blend of morality and cunning. This introductory chapter aims to provide a groundwork for understanding the complex social fabric of French women’s contributions to their society, serving as a prelude to deeper analysis in subsequent chapters.