There are a number of misconceptions about Marie Antoinette. Although Marie Antoinette was blamed for France's financial problems, she was a convenient scapegoat. In addition, it was widely believed that she was spoiled and nave and this led people to attribute one of history's most famous phrases, "let them eat cake,"" to her. Such topics as how she was so easy to blame and her spoiled and nave ways as well as her misconceptions and her conviction of treason that led to her death. Imagine a woman who apologizes to her executioner for having stepped on his foot.
Marie Antoinette was born of the Austrian Empress, Maria Theresa on November 2, 1755. Her Christian name was Maria Antonia but changed after she was married. Maria Theresa set stern commands that her children not be pampered but since she was always caught up in her work, she did not realize her children being spoiled. Marie Antoinette was taught by a tutor, Abbé Jacques de Vermond how to speak French and be a lady. On April 21 1770, Marie left her homeland and traveled to the French palace of Versailles to be married. Maria Theresa arranged her daughter's marriage to Louis who became King Louis XVI after the old king died in 1774. As time went on, Marie Antoinette became more rebellious and loyal to her homeland of Austria. Marie Antoinette convinced her husband to support Austria, which eventually led both of them to be arrested on .
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suspicions of treason. Marie Antoinette and King Louis were sent to the Temple Prison along with their children. On January 21, 1793, Louis was sent to the guillotine and executed. In October, Marie Antoinette was tried and convicted just as her husband. On October 16, 1793, Marie Antoinette was taken through the streets of Paris in an open cart and executed by guillotine. .
A convenient scapegoat is a person who is easily blamable for the problems of others. Marie Antoinette was seen as a convenient scapegoat to the people of France.