Claude Duval, French highwayman (b. 1643)

Claude Du Vall, often referred to as Duval (1643 – 21 January 1670), was a notorious yet romantically mythologized French highwayman who operated in Restoration England. His short but impactful life, culminating at just 26 years old, left an indelible mark on English folklore, shaping the popular perception of the 'gentleman rogue'.

Hailing from a lineage of "decayed nobility" in Normandy, France, Du Vall's family had lost much of its former status and wealth, a common plight for many aristocratic families following periods of political upheaval. This background likely influenced his path, as he initially found employment in the service of exiled royalists. These were supporters of the Stuart monarchy who had been forced to flee England during the Commonwealth period under Oliver Cromwell. Upon the triumphant return of King Charles II in 1660, an event known as the Restoration, Du Vall accompanied these royalists back to England, arriving around 1660 or 1661.

While the precise details of his transition to a life of crime remain scant in historical records, Du Vall quickly established himself as a prominent figure on the English roads. Highwaymen in 17th-century England were a significant societal concern, preying on travellers and coaches, often employing violence. However, Du Vall's legend diverges sharply from this brutal reality. According to widespread popular accounts and subsequent literary portrayals, he cultivated a unique reputation for his astonishing courtesy and chivalry, especially towards women. Unlike his contemporaries, who were often ruthless, Du Vall was fabled to have abhorred gratuitous violence.

Numerous anecdotes circulate about his gentlemanly conduct. One famous tale recounts how he encountered a knight and his wife, successfully robbing the husband, yet then charming the wife so thoroughly with his manners and musical skill (playing a flageolet) that she willingly danced with him on the heath, ultimately persuading her husband to pay a substantial sum for the "privilege" of his wife's freedom and safety, which Du Vall then promptly returned, or at least a portion of it. Such stories, whether wholly true or embellished, were instrumental in "spawning the myth of the romantic highwayman," transforming a dangerous criminal into an enigmatic figure of charm and daring.

This captivating persona was eagerly embraced by many novelists and playwrights across generations. The archetype of the elegant, daring rogue who robs with panache and treats women with respect became a recurring motif in literature and popular culture. Figures like Captain Macheath in John Gay's celebrated 1728 ballad opera, The Beggar's Opera, though not directly based on Du Vall, certainly drew from and popularized the idea of the charming, unrepentant criminal. Later, authors like William Harrison Ainsworth in his 1834 novel Rookwood continued to romanticize highwaymen, often with Du Vall as a spiritual predecessor.

Despite his legendary charm, Du Vall's life as a highwayman came to an abrupt end. He was eventually captured and, like many criminals of his time, sentenced to death. On 21 January 1670, he was hanged at Tyburn, the infamous public execution site in London, before a vast crowd, many of whom were reportedly women lamenting his fate. His execution further cemented his legendary status, making him one of the most celebrated and enduring figures in the annals of English criminal history and a timeless symbol of the dashing rogue.

Frequently Asked Questions About Claude Du Vall

Who was Claude Du Vall?
Claude Du Vall was a French highwayman active in Restoration England during the 1660s, renowned more for his legendary courtesy and chivalry than for his actual crimes.
Where did Claude Du Vall come from?
He was from Normandy, France, belonging to a family of "decayed nobility" that had lost much of its wealth and status. He came to England with exiled royalists returning with King Charles II in 1660.
What made Claude Du Vall a "romantic highwayman"?
Popular legends portray him as a non-violent highwayman who exhibited extreme courtesy to his male victims and chivalry towards women, often engaging them in charming conversations or even dances, creating a stark contrast to the typical brutal highwaymen of his era. This led to his romanticized image.
How did Claude Du Vall die?
He was captured and subsequently hanged at Tyburn, London, on January 21, 1670, at the age of 26.
What was the cultural impact of Claude Du Vall?
His legend significantly influenced literature and theatre, helping to popularize the archetype of the "gentleman rogue" or romantic criminal, inspiring characters in works like John Gay's The Beggar's Opera and numerous other novels and plays.