Introduction to Sophie's Scriptorium: Grand Duchess Sophie's scriptorium belonged to Franz Joseph's parents, Grand Duke Franz Karl and Grand Duchess Sophie, in the 19th century. This small hall was their suite. On the one hand, Sophie was a strong and scheming woman. Not only did she successfully train her son to become the emperor, she was also an indispensable adviser in his political life, and was known as "the only man in the Vienna court."