Intriguing Facts About Madame De Maintenon, France’s Uncrowned Queen
Few could have predicted the rise of Françoise d’Aubigné, better known as Madame de Maintenon. Born into a fallen family, her tumultuous beginnings meant her prospects for a bright future were bleak. Yet, she defied all the odds when she stepped out of the shadows and became the most powerful woman in France.
1. Her Birth Was Scandalous
Françoise d’Aubigné was born on November 27, 1635, to Constant d’Aubigné and Jeanne de Cardilhac in Niort, France—and the circumstances surrounding her birth were scandalous. Some suggest she was born in the local prison, where her father was serving time and where her grandfather was the prison director. In a twisted way, prisons turned out to play a crucial disturbing role in Françoise's life, even before her birth.
2. She Had A Shocking Backstory
Françoise’s parents’ relationship had a sordid backstory. Her father likely seduced her mother while in prison. Three months after he arrived at the prison, he married Françoise's mother. To make matters worse, they had different religions: Constant was a Huguenot, while Jeanne was a staunch Catholic. But when it came to drama within the d'Aubigné family, this was only the tip of the iceberg.
3. She Had A Horrible Father
Although Françoise hailed from a distinguished Huguenot family, her father's unruly behavior had a chilling effect on her own life. Constant was ruthlessly disinherited for his numerous betrayals and roguish ways. This unrest trickled drown and infected Françoise's relationship with her parents. But even greater horrors lay in wait.
4. She Had A Dysfunctional Family
In 1643, Françoise's father received a pardon, but the long-awaited reunion wasn’t a happy one. Years of separation had damaged the familial bonds beyond repair. Her father continued with his old, bad habits, while she and her mother clashed over religion. However, life seemed to take an optimistic turn when her family was given the chance to start anew.
It didn't take long, however, for their hopes to be dashed upon the rocks.
