In his day Louis XIV was monarch of Europe's grandest nation, one of the most politically effective European monarchs ever to reign. Depicted as Apollo, the ancient mythological sun god, he became Le Roi Soleil, invested, throughout his long life, with unprecedented power and privilege. Like Apollo he was equated with all life's finest attributes, with the arts, with music, poetry and elegance. His image reflected the position of France in the 17th century, an exceedingly rich, diverse and powerful culture. He was its ...
Read More
In his day Louis XIV was monarch of Europe's grandest nation, one of the most politically effective European monarchs ever to reign. Depicted as Apollo, the ancient mythological sun god, he became Le Roi Soleil, invested, throughout his long life, with unprecedented power and privilege. Like Apollo he was equated with all life's finest attributes, with the arts, with music, poetry and elegance. His image reflected the position of France in the 17th century, an exceedingly rich, diverse and powerful culture. He was its magnificent public face, the pinnacle of its glory, for almost 50 years. But he was also a man who was irredeemably flawed and ultimately damaging both to France and its monarchy. At the core of this biography of Louis XIV of France lies the story of the clash between his role as "le Roi Soleil", custodian of the grandeur of France, and his guilt, as a human being, at the effect of his rule on France and its people. It questions too the possibility of training one person to be the symbol of absolute authority without allowing or obliging them to act as the embodiment of that authority. Invested with such power, how did he use it? Was he cruel or kind? Tyrant or populist? What was behind his prodigal expenditure on his own glory? Did he confuse that with that of France? And was it training that led him to do so? In this intricate and controversial biography Anthony Levi shows how Louis XIV ultimately acquitted himself throughout the lengthy and testing role that fate cast him to play in European history.
Read Less
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Simply Brit – welcome to our online used book store, where affordability meets great quality. Dive into a world of captivating reads without breaking the bank. We take pride in offering a wide selection of used books, from classics to hidden gems, ensuring there's something for every literary palate. All orders are shipped within 24 hours and our lightning fast-delivery within 48 hours coupled with our prompt customer service ensures a smooth journey from ordering to delivery. Discover the joy of reading with us, your trusted source for affordable books that do not compromise on quality.
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. **SHIPPED FROM UK** We believe you will be completely satisfied with our quick and reliable service. All orders are dispatched as swiftly as possible! Buy with confidence! Greener Books.
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Connecting readers with great books since 1972! Used books may not include companion materials, and may have some shelf wear or limited writing. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Connecting readers with great books since 1972! Used books may not include companion materials, and may have some shelf wear or limited writing. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
