Louis XIV

by Philippe Erlanger

Acclaimed author Philippe Erlanger, winner of the Grand Prix d'Histoire de l'Academie Française, presents an intimately detailed portrait of France's most powerful and flamboyant ruler. With a novelist's elegant language and psychological insight, Erlanger portrays the Sun King through the decades, showing the crucial effect of a childhood filled with neglect and humiliation, and vividly depicting the King's spectacular style of leadership. "A brilliant, subtle portrait."-- Le Monde. "The best work of history written in France for a century." -- Le Figaro.

Genres: Biography, History, France, European History

496 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1965

Reviews

[Eric · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crisp, enjoyable read yet written with a wide scope. (Disclaimer: this is my FAVORITE historical era - so many wonderfully vibrant characters on the global stage and numerous world changing events).

[Jack · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting at times, but poorly explained at others. More reference material is needed to organize the numerous officials and royal family members. More detailed explanation and context would also improve the book.

[Charles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very comprehensive. The only thing I didn't like, was the author using modern comparisons to Louis's reign as a chance to editorialize about current events (in this case late 1960's). Only a couple times in 450 pages, just a pet peeve of mine.

[Giornata_di_sole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Biografia davvero interessante e ben scritta, nella quale l'autore analizza in maniera esaustiva la figura di Luigi XIV, il suo lungo regno, il contesto storico e la moltitudine di personaggi che, a vario titolo, ruotano intorno al Sole...