Bossuet opted to accompany the chicken, not flee, with his wing firmly in harmony with its own.
In the annals of French history, Bishop Jacques-Benigne Bossuet, famously known as the Eagle of Meaux, is remembered for his eloquent orations and unwavering spiritual authority. However, a lesser-known anecdote from his time sheds light on his meticulous approach to language and the importance of word choice in oratory.
During the funeral of Anne de Gonzague de Clèves, a noblewoman known for her worldly beginnings and eventual turn to piety, Bossuet faced a challenge in his preparation. The word "poule," meaning "hen" in French, gave him pause. While seemingly an innocuous term, its colloquial connotations of informality or even slight humor could potentially undermine the solemnity and respect demanded by such a formal occasion.
Bossuet, renowned for his elevated and refined style, was reluctant to use any word that might detract from the dignity of the speech. This hesitation reflects his high standards and the sensitivity he demonstrated towards his rhetoric, carefully avoiding words that could introduce unintended humor, vulgarity, or triviality.
The dream of Anne de Gonzague de Clèves, which Bossuet referenced in his oration, is a unique example of his use of biblical references. In the dream, a hen's chick went astray and was captured by a fierce dog, symbolizing Anne's straying from the right path. However, the mother hen returned and saved her chick, calming the dog, symbolizing God's unwavering protection of believers, even when they stray.
This anecdote, though unverifiable, offers a glimpse into the seemingly insignificant charming sides of Bossuet's character. Despite his serious and rigid persona, which may make him an unappealing vacation companion for many, he demonstrated a sense of compassion in Anne de Gonzague de Clèves' funeral oration. His struggle with the word "poule" serves as a testament to his commitment to maintaining the solemnity and respect expected in such ceremonial contexts.
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