【Language & Culture Series】

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Parliament v.s. Parlement?

Exploring the Origins and Role of Parlement in French History

The parliament is a legislative body that represents the people and oversees the government's work. Interestingly, if you translate 'parliament' into French, you'll discover the word 'le parlement.' The term 'parliament,' which originally meant a formal conference or assembly, actually originated from Old French 'parlement' around 1300 CE. The spelling evolved to correspond with the Anglo-Latin 'parliamentum' over the next hundred years. By the mid-1400s, the specific meaning of "representative assembly of England or Ireland '' had emerged, forming the word we currently use. Let's delve deeper into the earliest origins of 'parlement.'

The word 'parlement' is derived from the root 'parler,' which means 'to talk' or 'to speak.' This seems fitting as the modern parliament is indeed a forum where people frequently engage in debates and express their opinions. However, it's intriguing to note that initially, 'Parlement' did not refer to a legislative body. Instead, it was a local appellate court in the Kingdom of France, a function it served until the French Revolution.

So, what exactly was the role of this institution during the monarchy era? Let's explore this historical narrative further in the following!

Parlement is the highest court in Old France. It originated from the royal court, where early kings met with their main vassals and religious leaders to discuss political issues. Additionally, it handled a small number of legal cases presented to the king as the highest judge. Afterward, Parlement became the highest judicial body in the legal system, deciding cases involving royal towns and holding significant power in many matters. Although Parlement wasn't empowered to enact laws like the parliament, laws and edicts issued by the king only gained legal authority after being officially approved and published by Parlement. 

During the reign of Louis XIV, the king consistently sought to abolish Parlement because Absolutism wouldn't tolerate any opposing voice to monarchy. From this, its power had been continuously restricted until a brief resurgence during the reign of Louis XVI, only to be terminated after the French Revolution.

What are your thoughts on Parlement? Is it seen as a challenge to the king's authority, or does it hinder reform’s efforts? Parler de votre opinion!🗣🔊💥

Reference: Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Parlement

                  Etymonline: https://www.etymonline.com/word/parliament