Marie Antoinette

French queen, executed

Early Modern influential 91 sayings

Sayings by Marie Antoinette

I was a queen, and you took away my crown; you put me in prison, and I had no family; I was condemned to death, and I had no friend.

1793 — Reported saying during her trial.
Controversial Unverifiable

I am not afraid of death.

1793 — Reported saying during her imprisonment.
Controversial Unverifiable

I know I have been a bad queen, but I have tried to be a good mother.

c. 1792-1793 — Reported saying, a reflection on her roles.
Controversial Unverifiable

My only crime is to have been born on the throne.

c. 1793 — Attributed to her, a common sentiment of those facing execution during the revolution.
Controversial Unverifiable

I am accused of having corrupted the morals of the Dauphin. The proof of this is that he was a good child, and now he is not.

1793 — During her trial, responding to accusations of incest.
Controversial Unverifiable

I am innocent of all the crimes imputed to me.

1793 — Statement during her trial.
Controversial Unverifiable

I regret nothing, except that I have not been able to do more for my children.

1793 — Reported saying during her final days.
Controversial Unverifiable

I have been wrong, but I have always been sincere.

c. 1780s — Reported saying, a defense of her character.
Controversial Unverifiable

My only desire is to finish my days in peace.

1792 — Letter during her early imprisonment.
Controversial Unverifiable

I have learned to suffer in silence.

c. 1790s — Reported saying, reflecting her stoicism in adversity.
Controversial Unverifiable

The greatest misfortune of a queen is to be judged by appearances.

c. 1780s — Reported saying, reflecting her frustration with public perception.
Controversial Unverifiable