Miss Elder
Basic Information
Miss Elder was Marie Bashkirtseff's English governess or teacher in Nice during 1873. As was common among aristocratic Russian families, English governesses were employed to teach language, deportment, and provide cultural education to young ladies.
Significance in Marie Bashkirtseff's Life
Elder served several roles in Marie's education and daily life:
- Language Instructor: Taught Marie English, which she already spoke well
- Literary Advisor: Was "astonished" when Marie announced her intention to publish an article critiquing "A Journey across the central plains of Europe"
- Cultural Mediator: Provided Marie with information about social admirers, such as the American boy who "admired" her
Her reaction to Marie's literary ambitions reveals the unconventional nature of Marie's intellectual pursuits for a 13-year-old girl in 1873.
Historical Context
English governesses were highly sought after by Continental aristocratic families in the 19th century. They were expected to provide not just language instruction but also to impart British manners and cultural knowledge, which were considered essential for young ladies entering international society. The governess occupied an ambiguous social position - neither family nor servant, educated but dependent.
Mentions in the Diary
- September 24, 1873: Informs Marie that an American boy "admired you"
- September 26, 1873: Is "toute étonnée" (completely astonished) at Marie's plan to publish an article
- Referenced as teaching English lessons to Marie
Related Entries
- #Maman - Marie's mother who employed the governess
- Educational figures in Marie's life