More often than not, they were the mistresses of Kings and Noblemen, but this did not mean that they were mere bed partners. To be a 'Lady of the Court', a woman had to be well-bred, intelligent, charming, witty, usually beautiful, and above all discreet; and often their importance at court depended on who they were sleeping with and how long they could keep their interest.
However, it would probably surprise you to know that the role of women in France during this time, was not unlike that of their Canadian counterparts. Marriages in France were arranged by the father, and usually engineered for the benefit of the family or 'House'; while in Canada, though a woman was free to choose her own mate, she had to have her father's approval; and his decision was based on what was good for the clan, village or tribe.
Women from both countries had sexual freedom, but encounters were usually at their discretion, and though marriages may have been arranged, they could seek sexual gratification inside and outside of the marriage vows. Once children entered into the picture, most were apt to 'settle down' for the good of the family unit.
If a woman was the daughter of a nobleman; especially a King, Queen or Chief; her marriage contract was often entered into as part of a peace treaty or bartered for military allegiance or land (in Canada hunting grounds and fishing districts). However, since she was now marrying into the family of a former enemy, she was often abused or once again ransomed or bartered.
Also; in both Canada and France, while leadership was male dominated, woman stood side by side with the men, and their opinions were valued in all important matters. Men made war while woman cleaned up after them, and if necessary packed at a moment's notice, if the outcome of the war was not to their benefit. It was only during the Victorian Era, that woman in this country began to feel subserviant. Prior to this the strong female Canadian Natives and French Immigrants knew their worth; despite the fact that the Jesuits and others, tried to convince them otherwise.
In this section of the site you will be introduced to some of the most important women in France, during the various stages of the development of French Canada. I've broken them down by Courts, from King Francois I, who was the first to take an interest in Canada; to Louis XV; the last to have any hold. My stories are not really aboutthem however, but of the women who had the real power, and more often than not, if a person wanted to get to the King or Queen, they had to get through them first.
