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Before The History You Know: A Novel of Louis XIV

Edward Bell

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Published in Before Versailles: Before The History You Know A Novel Of Louis XIV

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A Portrait Of Louis XIV Before Versailles: Before The History You Know A Novel Of Louis XIV

Before Versailles: Before the History You Know...a Novel of Louis XIV

by Karleen Koen

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2042 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	482 pages

Before The History You Know is a novel by acclaimed author Louis XIV. It tells the story of the young king's rise to power and his early years as ruler of France. The novel is based on extensive research and provides a vivid and detailed portrayal of the French court and society during this period.

The Early Years

Louis XIV was born in 1638, the son of King Louis XIII and Anne of Austria. He became king at the age of four, following the death of his father. However, he did not assume full power until 1661, when he reached the age of majority. During his early years, Louis was heavily influenced by his mother and her chief minister, Cardinal Mazarin. Mazarin was a skilled politician who helped to restore order to France after the chaos of the Fronde, a series of civil wars that had plagued the country during the king's minority.

The Sun King

Louis XIV is often known as the "Sun King." This nickname reflects his image as a powerful and glorious monarch. Louis was a skilled military leader who led France to victory in several wars, including the War of Devolution and the Franco-Dutch War. He also oversaw a period of great cultural and artistic achievement, known as the "Age of Louis XIV." During this time, France produced some of its greatest writers, artists, and musicians, including Molière, Racine, and Lully.

The Court of Versailles

Louis XIV's court was one of the most lavish and extravagant in Europe. The king held court at the Palace of Versailles, which he had built outside of Paris. Versailles was a symbol of Louis's power and prestige. It was also a place of entertainment and pleasure, where the king and his courtiers could enjoy music, dancing, and gambling.

The Legacy of Louis XIV

Louis XIV reigned for 72 years, the longest reign of any French king. He left a lasting legacy on France. He helped to make France the dominant power in Europe, and he fostered a period of great cultural and artistic achievement. Louis XIV is also remembered for his absolutist rule. He believed that the king should have absolute power over his subjects. This belief led to a number of conflicts with the French nobility and the Huguenots, a Protestant minority group.