A Case of Questionable Motives: Théophile Gautier and La Gazette des Femmes

Several columns Théophile Gautier published anomynously in the Figaro in 1836 and 1837 contain mysterious and bantering references to one Marie-Madeleine Poutret de Mauchamps, purported editor of La Gaztte des Femmes. What at first appears to be an anti-feminist mystification perpetrated by a well-known chauvinist turns out to be based on fact. Beneath the humorous lampooning lies a story of debauchery, intrigue and questionable journalistic motives worthy of Zola or a modern soap opera. (FGH)