Charles de Sainte-Maure, duc de Montausier facts for kids
Charles de Sainte-Maure, duc de Montausier (born October 6, 1610 – died November 17, 1690), was an important French soldier. From 1668 to 1680, he served as the governor for the Dauphin, who was the oldest son and heir of King Louis XIV of France.
Early Life and Military Career
Charles de Sainte-Maure was born on October 6, 1610. His parents were Huguenots, which means they were French Protestants. He received his education at the Protestant Academy of Sedan.
Charles began his military career early. He fought bravely at the siege of Casale in 1629. In 1635, he became the Baron de Montausier after his older brother passed away. He continued to serve in the French army, fighting in various campaigns. In 1643, he was captured during the Battle of Tuttlingen and was held prisoner for ten months until his ransom was paid.
After returning to France, he was promoted to lieutenant-general.
Marriage and Court Life
On July 15, 1645, Charles de Montausier married Julie d'Angennes. Their courtship had lasted 14 years and was quite famous! A special book called the Guirlande de Julie (Garland of Julie) was created for her. It was a collection of 61 short poems called madrigals, written by 19 different poets, including Montausier himself. The book was beautifully copied by a famous calligrapher named Nicolas Jarry, and each page had a flower painted by Nicolas Robert.
Montausier later became the governor of the regions of Saintonge and Angoumois. Before his marriage, he converted to Catholicism. During a period of civil unrest in France known as the Fronde, he remained loyal to the King. Even though he was known for his somewhat rough manners, he gained favor at the royal court. Some people even thought he was the inspiration for the character Alceste in Molière's famous play Le Misanthrope.
Governor of the Dauphin
King Louis XIV honored Montausier by giving him the Order of the Holy Spirit and making him the governor of Normandy. In 1664, his title was elevated, and he became the Duke of Montausier.
In 1668, Montausier was given a very important role: he became the governor of the Dauphin, the King's son. He held this position until 1680. He was very dedicated to the Dauphin's education. He even started a series of classic books known as ad usum Delphini (for the use of the Dauphin). These books were specially edited for the young prince. However, Montausier's strict teaching style meant that the Dauphin didn't enjoy learning very much.
Charles de Sainte-Maure, duc de Montausier, passed away on November 17, 1690.
