The Paradox of Mazarin

Should Cardinal Mazarin be viewed as a great French statesman or as an Italian adventurer whose luck never ran out? The element of paradox is central to Mazarin’s career.

Cardinal Mazarin
Cardinal Mazarin by Pierre Mignard, c. 1660. Musée Condé.

Question: What is the doctrine of Mazarin?
Answer: It is the same that the French tyrants have taught, and that their followers embrace with all their hearts.

Question: What is the faith of Mazarin?
Answer: To believe that all belongs to the king; that he may take all without returning anything.

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