Synopses & Reviews
Here is the first major study of domestic service in France from the late seventeenth century to the early nineteenth century, describing its transformation from a male-oriented occupation, aristocratic in style and often geared to public display, to one that was female, middle-class, and centered on the household.
Originally published in 1984.
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Review
"Domestic servants were the largest single occupation category in most French towns in the 18th century; they figured importantly in the literature of the period, and their influence was considerable. Yet they have until now been neglected by historians on both sides of the Atlantic. Professor Maza of Northwestern University has attempted to fill this gap in our knowledge, and she has succeeded: this is one of the best studies in French history to appear in a long time. We see the evolution of the serving class over a century and come to understand that class's sometimes pivotal social role." Reviewed by Daniel Weiss, Virginia Quarterly Review (Copyright 2006 Virginia Quarterly Review)