What is maitresse en titre?

"Maitresse en titre" is a French term that literally means "Mistress in Title". It refers to the official title given to the mistress of a French king or nobleman, and the position carried considerable power and influence in court. The role of the maitresse en titre was to provide companionship, support, and entertainment for the king or nobleman, as well as to serve as his informal adviser and confidante. The maitresse en titre was also expected to secure political alliances and advance the interests of her lover, often by influencing his decision-making or advocating for specific policies or actions. The position of maitresse en titre was relatively common in pre-Revolutionary France, where extramarital liaisons were generally accepted and even celebrated among the aristocracy.