The Fronde

The Fronde refers to the civil war that took place in France between 1648 and 1653. Although the causes for this great civil unrest are numerous, one of the factors that led to this conflict was the conflict between French Catholics and Protestants. For years religious tension had been growing in France as Protestant influences in politics and economics continued to growth throughout Europe. Coupled with an inconsistent and weak dynastic change during the years of the Fronde, French nobility began to move against the monarchy to assert their influence and promote their goals.

One of the documents that illustrate the extent the French aristocracy was willing to venture in order to control the monarchy is An Intimate Discussion between the King and the Queen Regent. In this dialogue, the king questions the queen regent one some of the political decisions that were made on his behalf which led to further turmoil in France. The figure in this discussion that is under scrutiny is Cardinal Mazarin. When asked why Cardinal Mazarin is given such a large degree of authority in French matters the queen responds, “…because I love him [Cardinal Mazarin] and he does everything I want.” As the conversation continues, however, it will become obvious that Cardinal Mazarin’s influence over the queen makes her the puppet and himself the puppeteer.

Further evidence of Cardinal Mazarin’s control over the regent queen is shown when she states that several preachers had been imprisoned and or banished for speaking, “…too frankly and openly against Cardinal Mazarin concerning matters of state.” To further illustrate the depths of Cardinal Mazarin’s manipulation of the crown, the regent queen explains Cardinal Mazarin’s “henchmen” are powerful men who, “…advise him and who own all the property in France.” From previous readings it is clear that those who owned the lands had the ability to exercise great influence and authority in France. Moreover, it would appear that the queen regent and the king would be at the mercy of these “henchmen” should they had chosen to incite further popular risings against the crown.

Thus it is clear from this brief conversation that the throne Louis XIV was to inherit was plagued with corruption. Cardinal Mazarin’s actions relate greatly to that of Cardinal Wolsey of England. Cardinal Wolsey, like Cardinal Mazarin, was notorious for manipulating the crown into gaining personal favor and political influence.