Christina Wang
AP MEH OUTLINE
Introduction: During the late sixteenth century to the late eighteenth century, the concepts of nobility in France changed completely. The concept of nobility in France was simply wrong. In the 16th century, nobility was based on military service and morality; however, it became compromised by rich people who are able to buy their nobility through their wealth. The traditional nobility based on military service to the king called sword nobility; the one who purchased offices in royal or local governments were robe nobles.
Military statues were important in nobility and an honorable noble had to serve the king relentlessly.
Jean de la Taille describes the sword nobility in his poem "The Retired Courtier", "As he serves the King, he must serve the King's favourites, honour the hateful, Give gifts, hold banquets." (Doc 1). Jean de la Taille explains in his poem how important it was for a nobleman to serve the king.
The young King Louis XIII was only a figurehead du...
Louis XIII, king of France
Louis XIII of France"There is no true Nobility except that which derives from virtue and morality." As Pierre de La Primaudaye, sword nobleman and historian explain in The French Academy. At this time period, nobility were regarded as symbol of righteousness. (Doc 2)
Moliere, non-noble playwright once said, "Virtue is the first title of nobility. The way you act is much more important than the way you sign your name." He states that as a nobleman, he is nothing without virtue. Only the one who follow their virtues are the true nobility. (Doc 8)
Speak by Gilles Andre de La Roque, "The great nobles of the sword are drawn from a race so ancient that its beginnings are lost in time, and they have won their renown by their calls to battle and by military exploits." (Doc 9). As a sword nobleman, he...