Beschreibung:
The 18th century witnessed a renewed appreciation on the part of society of the dignity of doctors and their art. Generally lacking the favors of Fortune, however, they remained behind the other, more privileged categories in the race for social promotion. Frequently merit more than money opened the way to nobility. Another mean existed as well : service at court, founded on a good reputation and a solid network of acquaintances constituted a privileged path to both wealth and nobility.