19th Century France
Arranged Marriges
During this time period many if not all marriages were arranged by the parents. These marriages were arranged with economic difficulties in mind, and people married others in their social class. Marriages were arranged with mutual friends to get the best results.
Social Classes
Aristocrats
Many of the aristocrats were land owners and entrepreneurs. Some of these people simply inherited their wealth, being relative to royalty or something similar.
Aristocrats typically ate of the finest things and lives some of the finest lifestyles. Some aristocrats spent up to $10,000 a year on meats.
They had a good education since they could afford to be taught.
French Bourgeoisie
A large portion of these people's money went into their dining. They would spend days preparing big dinners with several courses. They lived comfortably often hiring maids and servants to work around the house.
These people could afford to be taught and most were literate.
Proletariat
These people consisted of farmers, laborers, and servants and maids. Many of them had little to no literacy, and just learned enough to get by. They farmed to eat , and many people barely had enough to buy food.