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Marie Antoinette: Queen and Tragic Icon

Marie Antoinette, born in 1755 in Austria, became Queen of France at 19 after marrying Louis XVI. Her extravagant lifestyle led to public backlash, particularly during France's financial crisis, culminating in her execution for treason in 1793 during the French Revolution. Today, she is viewed more sympathetically as a victim of circumstance and remains a significant cultural icon.

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65 views2 pages

Marie Antoinette: Queen and Tragic Icon

Marie Antoinette, born in 1755 in Austria, became Queen of France at 19 after marrying Louis XVI. Her extravagant lifestyle led to public backlash, particularly during France's financial crisis, culminating in her execution for treason in 1793 during the French Revolution. Today, she is viewed more sympathetically as a victim of circumstance and remains a significant cultural icon.

Uploaded by

ggenevieve.scott16
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Marie Antoinette

Early Life:

●​ Born on November 2, 1755, in Austria as Maria Antonia Josepha Johanna.


●​ Daughter of Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Francis I of Austria.
●​ Married the French Dauphin, Louis XVI, at 14 to strengthen France-Austria relations.
●​ Became Queen of France in 1774 at age 19.

Her Life as Queen:

●​ Lived in luxury at Versailles, spending lavishly on fashion, jewelry, and entertainment.


●​ Her extravagant lifestyle earned her criticism from the struggling French population.
●​ Famous for elaborate hairstyles, known as "poufs," and grand parties.
●​ Created the Petit Trianon, a private estate where she enjoyed a simpler life away from
court.

Political & Public Backlash:

●​ Became a scapegoat for France’s financial crisis, accused of overspending while the
country suffered.
●​ The phrase “Let them eat cake” is falsely attributed to her, as there’s no historical
evidence she said it.
●​ Criticized for her influence on Louis XVI and perceived indifference toward the common
people.
●​ The Diamond Necklace Affair (1785) scandal damaged her reputation further, although
she was innocent.

French Revolution & Execution:

●​ Revolution began in 1789, leading to the fall of the monarchy.


●​ The royal family was arrested and taken to Tuileries Palace, then to prison in 1792.
●​ Louis XVI was executed in January 1793; Marie Antoinette was put on trial in October
1793.
●​ Found guilty of treason and executed by guillotine on October 16, 1793, at age 37.

Legacy:

●​ Originally vilified, but modern historians view her as a victim of circumstance rather than
an evil queen.
●​ A pop culture icon, often portrayed in films, books, and art as a tragic figure.
●​ Her fashion influence remains strong, inspiring designers centuries later.

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