10/12/2023
In the Polish language, instead of "vivandierka", the concept of "markietanka" (a female sutler or victualer) has survived. It appears, for example, in "Pan Tadeusz" - in the original version of the epic poem by Adam Mickiewicz and in the film adaptation by Andrzej Wajda. Here is young Tadeusz Soplica - trying to cool Telimena's matrimonial zeal and ready to follow him "everywhere; every corner of the world" – and saying the line: "How come? […] Have you lost your mind? Where? Why?/Follow me? I am a simple soldier myself, / Should I be a tramp or drag a female sutler/"markietanka"? This statement is significant as it shows that although going to war in the company of one's wife was not unthinkable at that time, it was a rather unusual phenomenon. The vast majority of men - voluntarily or as part of conscription – performed their military services alone. Sometimes, they could be accompanied by servants – only if finances allowed it – and again, they were of the same gender.
Maria Walewska wrote to Napoleon about the battle. He replied: "You can be proud."