“The king and the dauphin both like to see me on horseback. I only say this because all the world perceives it, and especially while we were absent from Versailles, they were delighted to see me in my riding habit.”
- November 2, 1755 – October 16, 1793
- From the Duchy of Austria, Holy Roman Empire
- Queen
- Influenced fashion and culture, and symbolized the splendor of court life
Quote
“The king and the dauphin both like to see me on horseback. I only say this because all the world perceives it, and especially while we were absent from Versailles, they were delighted to see me in my riding habit.”
Explanation
In this quote, Marie Antoinette reflects on the positive reception she received while on horseback, particularly noting how her riding habits were appreciated by both Louis XVI (the king) and their son, the dauphin (the heir to the throne). Her mention that “all the world perceives it” suggests that her actions, especially in public, were closely observed and scrutinized. The image of a queen on horseback had long been a symbol of regality and strength, and by describing her riding habit as something the public delighted in, she seems to acknowledge how her public image and personal appearance were central to her relationship with both the royal family and the people.
This moment also likely speaks to a deeper sense of agency and control that Marie Antoinette may have felt when engaging in activities such as riding. The act of horseback riding was often seen as a dignified pursuit, and her enjoyment of it could have been an opportunity for her to connect with royal traditions and project a strong, active image to the public—an image that was sometimes at odds with the perception of her as a detached or frivolous queen. Furthermore, her comment suggests that during their time away from Versailles, when the court was less visible and public attention was drawn to their private activities, her role as a mother and wife was still central to how she was perceived.
In modern contexts, this quote may resonate with anyone whose image and behavior are constantly observed—from public figures to professionals—where appearance and actions take on heightened significance in shaping public opinion. The idea of performing roles in the public eye, whether for personal enjoyment or for maintaining one’s reputation, remains relevant today. This quote also speaks to the broader theme of identity: how individuals, particularly those in positions of power, navigate their public and private personas to balance personal desires with external expectations.
