A Description of the System of Estates in England and Germany in the 18th Century on the Basis of German Travel Reports

In the 17 th and 18 th century few people are able to afford travelling through their own or a foreign country. At first only children of the rich nobility travel in the framework of their education: These t ravels are called “The Grand Tour” and comprise visits of Italian and French cities. Later, especially in the 18 th century, also people of the lower classes, the middling ranks and the bourgeoisie can afford travelling. 1 In the 18 th century England takes France’s place as the European model due to changes in economy and society, due to progresses in science and politics. England becomes more and more interesting to people on the continent and the number of travellers grows constantly. Many of them write diaries or letters about their experiences and publish them. One thing the travellers write about is the English society, its state and its changes. England’s society and system of estates are of interest due to its differences towards societies on the continent. Its society is more liberal and open although the hierarchy is nearly the same. What the differences and similarities exactly are, shall be discussed in this paper with the help of German travel reports. I will discuss the details as mentioned by German travellers and try to find reasons, why they emphasized certain aspects, and why there are different opinions on these aspects. But first it seems useful to get a general overview of Germany and England and its societies in the 18 th century because this background information will help to understand the travellers’ opinions and remarks. Additionally, a definition of the term “system of estates” could be useful. [...]