The creation of the French royal mistress: from Agnès Sorel to Madame Du Barry

Abstract

Introduction : what was it about France? -- The beginning of a tradition : Agnès Sorel -- A tradition takes hold : Anne de Pisseleu d'Heilly -- Diane de Poitiers : epitome of the Frech royal mistress -- Gabrielle d'Estrées : never the twain shall meet -- The mistresses of the Sun King : La Vallière, Montespan, Maintenon -- Tearing the veil : Pompadour and Du Barry -- Epilogue : mistress-queen and the end of a tradition : Marie Antoinette.