Abstract EN:

This study looks at a group of consuls from Rodez, a medium-sized town in the massif central : its constitutional foundations, political practices, lifestyle and modes of reproduction. The prosoprographical approach enables us to identify roughly 730 consuls between 1500 and 1670. The social and occupational composition of the consulat undergoes considerable changes from the beginning of the sixteenth century to the second half of the following one. From the tradesman of the public official, the patriciate is always the dominant group, and confiscates most of the power, whilst keeping up the appearance of an urban democracy. The ideal of urban unity, which is at the basis of patrician political practices, aims to bring together different social groups, and thus contribute to affirming the pre-eminence of Rodez, the capital of Rouergue. This ideal is weakened by the crisis of league; Henri IV's moves to restore order signal the decline of urban independance. This decline is a consequence not only of reduced municipal powers but of a disaffection by notables of the patrician function. The study of consular families clearly shows a change in ambitions over the generations : from the res publica to self-centredness, upward social mobility begins gradually to hinge on the individual career rather than the desire to contribute to the public good. By the seventeenth century, the limits of the city no longer satisfy the ambitions of those families traditionally in power. Serving the king has become much more attractive than local responsibilities, now considered to be too heavy and insufficiently rewarding.