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ベルサイユのばら [Versailles no Bara] #4
The Rose of Versailles, Omnibus 4
France spirals towards a civil war, as nobles continue to ignore the people of France. Noblewoman Oscar François de Jarjayes is forced to reconsider her life as a soldier and a woman, her loyalties and her love. Marie Antoinette and the royal family seek escape, while Robespierre and the National Assembly take up arms and demand democracy. This deluxe hardcover volume contains chapters 67-82 of Riyoko Ikeda’s historical fiction masterwork, plus the side story “The Countess in Black”.
498 pages, Hardcover
First published December 1, 1994
10 people are currently reading
320 people want to read
About the author
Riyoko Ikeda
390 books276 followersRiyoko Ikeda (池田理代子) is a Japanese manga author and soprano singer.
As one of the 24-gumi, she has written and illustrated many shōjo manga, many of which are based on European historical events, such as the French Revolution or the Russian Revolution.
Her most famous manga is Versailles no bara (ベルサイユのばら, The rose of Versailles).
Other famous works include Oniisama e... (おにいさまへ…, Dear Brother) and Orpheus no mado (オルフェウスの窓, The Window of Orpheus) that won an Excellence award at Japan Cartoonists Association Award in 1980.
As one of the 24-gumi, she has written and illustrated many shōjo manga, many of which are based on European historical events, such as the French Revolution or the Russian Revolution.
Her most famous manga is Versailles no bara (ベルサイユのばら, The rose of Versailles).
Other famous works include Oniisama e... (おにいさまへ…, Dear Brother) and Orpheus no mado (オルフェウスの窓, The Window of Orpheus) that won an Excellence award at Japan Cartoonists Association Award in 1980.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
August 1, 2024
I think this is my favorite volume. The build up in the end was the best part. The only thing I wish was more Oscar/Marie time. I felt like they should have spent more time together. I would like them to see both together one last time before the tragedy at the end.
June 3, 2021
This volume marks the end of the actual story. Oscar's story comes to a close at the storming of the Bastille, and of course we all know where Marie Antoinette's story ends. The historical content remains remarkably good. There was clearly a ton of research done, and it's admirably balanced. Most historical fiction that's sympathetic to Marie Antoinette tend towards cartoonishly evil revolutionaries, but Ikeda keeps reminding readers that they had real grievances and that there was plenty of tragedy to go around. See especially Marie Antoinette trying to appeal to the fatherly instincts of the jailors separating her from her son, only to be told that their children starved to death while she lived in luxury. There is, of course, a lot of highly dramatic romance, between Oscar and Andre and Marie Antoinette and Fersen. This can be slightly much for me sometimes, but it's also part of the appeal.
The volume closes out with a two part side story, inspired by Elizabeth Bathory. This is about as gothic as Rose of Versailles is likely to get, and the execution is pretty good for something slightly outside of Ikeda's usual genre. Naturally, it's highly dramatic, in a very readable and fun way. Not quite as good as the main story generally was, but still a fun read.
The volume closes out with a two part side story, inspired by Elizabeth Bathory. This is about as gothic as Rose of Versailles is likely to get, and the execution is pretty good for something slightly outside of Ikeda's usual genre. Naturally, it's highly dramatic, in a very readable and fun way. Not quite as good as the main story generally was, but still a fun read.
March 22, 2023
3.5 stars
October 15, 2023
4/5 stars — me reading this volume, despite being someone who is aware of the events of the French Revolution: 😮
this was an improvement from vol 3 but i just could not muster my old feelings from the first volumes. I was sad for Marie Antoinette but her characterization was too little too late for me- I ONLY like her when she was talking about her mother or her children, but never just got who she was. *****…. good riddance. the second major character death in this volume???! I’m still shook. and I can’t even talk about my boy hans tbh. many feelings, most of them strangely neutral though.
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Pacing: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
this was an improvement from vol 3 but i just could not muster my old feelings from the first volumes. I was sad for Marie Antoinette but her characterization was too little too late for me- I ONLY like her when she was talking about her mother or her children, but never just got who she was. *****…. good riddance. the second major character death in this volume???! I’m still shook. and I can’t even talk about my boy hans tbh. many feelings, most of them strangely neutral though.
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Pacing: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
January 14, 2023
cried every page VIVE LA FRANCE
May 8, 2021
Volume 4 of Udon's English edition contains the final volume of The Rose of Versailles "main story," in addition to the "The Countess in Black," part of a series of short stories published after the manga's primary run finished.
The final chapters of The Rose of Versailles are, as one might expect, beautiful and overwrought. The wrap-up of Oscar and Andre's story is fittingly dramatic and intense, with no room to breathe before things come to a final conclusion.
The final pages focusing on wrapping up Marie Antoinette's story were beautifully illustrated but at times it felt disconnected and stale, with a few exceptions for some incredibly dynamic illustrations and dialogue that stuck out.
I think the general disconnect I felt with the last act is because the manga had long since stopped paying attention to Marie Antoinette's inner character in favor of Oscar, so suddenly swooping in and expecting readers to find a strong connection with Marie Antoinette doesn't quite--IMO--work out.
I personally didn't care for The Countess in Black side story but, to be fair, this is probably because it felt really bizarre to jump into a side story after finishing the actual The Rose of Versailles story. Like issues with tone and pacing in Volume 3, this is a side effect of how these volumes were compiled and published; I do wish that this side story had been part of Volume 5, and that Volume 4 had ended with The Rose of Versailles finale proper.
The final chapters of The Rose of Versailles are, as one might expect, beautiful and overwrought. The wrap-up of Oscar and Andre's story is fittingly dramatic and intense, with no room to breathe before things come to a final conclusion.
The final pages focusing on wrapping up Marie Antoinette's story were beautifully illustrated but at times it felt disconnected and stale, with a few exceptions for some incredibly dynamic illustrations and dialogue that stuck out.
I think the general disconnect I felt with the last act is because the manga had long since stopped paying attention to Marie Antoinette's inner character in favor of Oscar, so suddenly swooping in and expecting readers to find a strong connection with Marie Antoinette doesn't quite--IMO--work out.
I personally didn't care for The Countess in Black side story but, to be fair, this is probably because it felt really bizarre to jump into a side story after finishing the actual The Rose of Versailles story. Like issues with tone and pacing in Volume 3, this is a side effect of how these volumes were compiled and published; I do wish that this side story had been part of Volume 5, and that Volume 4 had ended with The Rose of Versailles finale proper.
May 29, 2023
A stunning 10/10 series, and truly a testament to the shoujo classics and their decade spanning successes. After watching Oniisama, e..., I realised that Ikeda Riyoko was certainly a genius ahead of her time; as in Berubara, her intimate exploration of femininity, identity and sexuality still boasts some of the greatest depth attributed to female characters in rather masculine settings. Even now, fifty (50!) years after Berubara's first chapter was published, the intricate writings of all the characters (especially Oscar François) appear relevant and modern, comparable to the identity crisis that many women have suffered from through each decade since.
I have so much more to say about this series but I am incredibly tired. Please enjoy for the time being my very eloquent introduction in which I restrained from mentioning the Feminine Mystique.
I have so much more to say about this series but I am incredibly tired. Please enjoy for the time being my very eloquent introduction in which I restrained from mentioning the Feminine Mystique.
February 5, 2023
Though this edition is the fourth in a five-volume set, it wraps up the main saga in its entirety. It is a masterfully concluded story, with all the built up tension finally exploding in sweeping melodramatic fashion. It is the kind of finale one might expect given the subject matter and knowledge of what awaits, at least in regard to the historical characters such as Marie Antoinette, whose tale comes back to the fore. And as for the fictional characters, they have their own dramatic moments which I will not elaborate on here.
The two-part bonus story, The Countess in Black takes place much earlier in the characters' lives. Though it is a somewhat macabre horror tale, it brought back some nostalgic innocence immediately after reading about the French Revolution.
The two-part bonus story, The Countess in Black takes place much earlier in the characters' lives. Though it is a somewhat macabre horror tale, it brought back some nostalgic innocence immediately after reading about the French Revolution.
January 12, 2026
Oh wow, did I never write a review for this? Well, first of all, so many things about the ending were already anticipated at this point. Marie Antoinette’s ending was clear, and this historical adaptation is rather sympathetic of her character, but not biased necessarily. It accurately depicts her failings and doesn’t sugarcoat things, but readers are able sympathize with her despite her shortcomings when they witness her struggles and limitations firsthand.
Andre’s ending was inevitable. It was tragic enough that he completely loses his vision and is never able to protect Oscar to his best abilities. He places himself in danger and dies amidst a gruesome battle, and dies with a love more alive than ever before. His blindness really struck my heart, knowing that he could never fully see Oscar anymore, or anything else for that matter. Even in their final acts of love, he couldn’t see Oscar, and she had no knowledge of his affliction. Andre is by no means a perfect character, but his love for Oscar was pure and he did indeed die for her, as he swore he would. I cannot help but respect and admire his resolution.
Oscar’s feelings are in turmoil in response to Andre’s death, and she immediately tries to follow him by committing suicide, exclaiming that there is nothing to live for anymore now that her beloved Andre is dead. Upon discovering his blindness, Oscar is even more despaired. I haven’t forgetting Oscar’s coughs of blood, which suggests that she may not have had much longer to live regardless. Oscar spent her life assuming the roles others forced upon her and serving her people, always living for others and never for herself. She could never even love loudly, whether it was for Fersen or Andre. Oscar felt like she had to live as a man her entire life, and died tragically fighting for others despite her grief.
I knew this story wouldn’t end happily, but I didn’t realize how tragically it would end. It’s sad that the fictional characters as well as the real historical figures met similar ends. Ikeda was ruthless in her execution of the ending, not allowing readers a single breath of relief. I enjoyed this story for what it was, but damn did it break my heart. This was not an easy read.
Andre’s ending was inevitable. It was tragic enough that he completely loses his vision and is never able to protect Oscar to his best abilities. He places himself in danger and dies amidst a gruesome battle, and dies with a love more alive than ever before. His blindness really struck my heart, knowing that he could never fully see Oscar anymore, or anything else for that matter. Even in their final acts of love, he couldn’t see Oscar, and she had no knowledge of his affliction. Andre is by no means a perfect character, but his love for Oscar was pure and he did indeed die for her, as he swore he would. I cannot help but respect and admire his resolution.
Oscar’s feelings are in turmoil in response to Andre’s death, and she immediately tries to follow him by committing suicide, exclaiming that there is nothing to live for anymore now that her beloved Andre is dead. Upon discovering his blindness, Oscar is even more despaired. I haven’t forgetting Oscar’s coughs of blood, which suggests that she may not have had much longer to live regardless. Oscar spent her life assuming the roles others forced upon her and serving her people, always living for others and never for herself. She could never even love loudly, whether it was for Fersen or Andre. Oscar felt like she had to live as a man her entire life, and died tragically fighting for others despite her grief.
I knew this story wouldn’t end happily, but I didn’t realize how tragically it would end. It’s sad that the fictional characters as well as the real historical figures met similar ends. Ikeda was ruthless in her execution of the ending, not allowing readers a single breath of relief. I enjoyed this story for what it was, but damn did it break my heart. This was not an easy read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2023
Final de la historia de María Antonieta con su muerte tras la Revolución Francesa. Incluye dos capítulos de sobre la Condesa Bathory, una vampiresa húngara.
August 27, 2025
extremely good and chilling....i knew roughly how the story would end but i was still flabbergasted by how it all played out. that last panel will stay in my head FOREVER
October 15, 2025
Review for complete series
Oscar de Jarjayes, also known as Lady Oscar, is raised as a man after her mother gave birth to three girls in succession. After years of training her skills, Oscar becomes the captain of the Palace Guard and is tasked with guarding none other than Marie Antoinette – the Rose of Versailles. While loyalty and friendship grow between the two, Oscar worries for the ever-suffering lower classes of Paris.
The Rose of Versailles is simply beautiful. Being a major manga classic, it is easy to see how it has influenced later works both in art and story-telling.
One of the most beautiful aspects of this work is most certainly the art. While some might call it dated – it is gorgeous to look at. The eyes are very prominent with the emphasis of sparkle in them. The female characters are particularly beautiful!
The Rose of Versailles starts of rather slow - it took me about a volume to get into it. I think possibly one of the reasons is because the most prominent main character, Oscar, is kept in the background. The first chapters focus on the young Marie Antoinette who is arguably not the most likeable character. However, one of the wonderful things about this series is that it follows its characters from a young age until they are mid-aged. I find that to be very unusual for a manga and it is exactly what makes it so easy to become attached to the characters. Even Marie Antoinette – regardless of her real character and motives – as far as fictional characterization goes, one can relate to her. While she makes grave mistakes and can come across as utterly selfish, the flow of the story makes it easy to understand how being thrown into such a luxurious world can influence and ruin a young person’s character. By the end of the story, she too has gone through many hardships and I found myself feeling very sorry for her.
Nevertheless, I find the characters around Marie Antoinette to be much more fascinating. Considering that the story spans over several decades, it is remarkable how the author managed to let her characters age - they definitely look older by the final volume and that's not something one can say for every manga.
Apart from the great in-depth view of the characters' lives and the wonderful art style, The Rose of Versailles has a great balance between humour, romance, action and drama. Of course, knowing that this story is set before and during the French Revolution, one can expect lots of tragedy - in other words, getting attached to these characters can end up being quite painful!
I can also see how some people might find this series too dramatic. It has its moments where it certainly can remind one of a soap opera but I believe that to be part of its charm. The Rose of Versailles is not a series that everyone would enjoy but I absolutely adore it and could hardly put it down. One of the most beautiful manga I have ever read!
January 21, 2013
Menudo dramón. Y que bien hilado está. Finalmente comienza la Revolución Francesa dejando todo preparado para el último volumen.
September 4, 2021
Strong conclusion to the story. I haven’t realized the finale fifth book consists of side stories. I look foreword to reading them.
December 15, 2025
5 stars for the final chapter/ 3.5 stars for "The Countess in Black"/ 4.25 stars for the overall collection
The Rose of Versailles Vol. 1 was my favorite, but Chapters 67-82 are a return to form. I'm convinced that people love this series so much because the ending is so strong. The majority of this series faces some serious flaws and rocky moments, but this last portion is solid. I do think that the bonus story would've fit better in volume 5 because LouLou's story predominately takes up that collection anyway, so I'm unsure why Udon's editors thought adding that story was a good idea, because in my opinion, it takes away from the finality of Oscar and Marie Antoinette's story ending.
Just like Volume 3, here are all of my notes on this one:
Episodes 67-70: Colorized portrait being revealed is stunning!! What a spread!! I hate them together, but those pages were beautiful. Weird to compare your love to a myth of twin brothers. Ikeda does love romanticizing incest (looking at Dear Brother). In episode 70, Sad, but honestly, I can't stand that SOB, so I'm not shedding a tear for him. *shrugs*
Episode 71: I, too, hate these French aristocrats. Lots of bloody attacks on the poor people of France.
Episode 72-77: OMG THIS VOLUME IS AMAZING! Oh no! Marie, girl, give up the gag. Claiming to be chosen by God to be Queen is out. The Americans have revolted and won, and the French will as well. If she would've let the people choose their leaders, she could've been a vanity queen for show and lived. If this keeps going in an excellent direction, it will be a 5-star book (it was!).
Episode 78-82: Saint Just and Robespierre are wayyy too guillotine heavy. Ready to send everyone there. Poor Marie Antoinette. OMG I didn't know Saint Just and Robespierre were also executed. This ending was amazing. Last volume was rough, but this series is beloved because of the ending, and now I know why.
"The Countess in Black"- The comedic relief character, LouLou, is the best character. I figured this was inspired by Elizabeth Bathory. I wish it were longer. Honestly, a 5-chapter one-shot could've made this story stronger and stand on its own. The art is stunning, as always. 3.5 stars
The Rose of Versailles Vol. 1 was my favorite, but Chapters 67-82 are a return to form. I'm convinced that people love this series so much because the ending is so strong. The majority of this series faces some serious flaws and rocky moments, but this last portion is solid. I do think that the bonus story would've fit better in volume 5 because LouLou's story predominately takes up that collection anyway, so I'm unsure why Udon's editors thought adding that story was a good idea, because in my opinion, it takes away from the finality of Oscar and Marie Antoinette's story ending.
Just like Volume 3, here are all of my notes on this one:
Episodes 67-70: Colorized portrait being revealed is stunning!! What a spread!! I hate them together, but those pages were beautiful. Weird to compare your love to a myth of twin brothers. Ikeda does love romanticizing incest (looking at Dear Brother). In episode 70, Sad, but honestly, I can't stand that SOB, so I'm not shedding a tear for him. *shrugs*
Episode 71: I, too, hate these French aristocrats. Lots of bloody attacks on the poor people of France.
Episode 72-77: OMG THIS VOLUME IS AMAZING! Oh no! Marie, girl, give up the gag. Claiming to be chosen by God to be Queen is out. The Americans have revolted and won, and the French will as well. If she would've let the people choose their leaders, she could've been a vanity queen for show and lived. If this keeps going in an excellent direction, it will be a 5-star book (it was!).
Episode 78-82: Saint Just and Robespierre are wayyy too guillotine heavy. Ready to send everyone there. Poor Marie Antoinette. OMG I didn't know Saint Just and Robespierre were also executed. This ending was amazing. Last volume was rough, but this series is beloved because of the ending, and now I know why.
"The Countess in Black"- The comedic relief character, LouLou, is the best character. I figured this was inspired by Elizabeth Bathory. I wish it were longer. Honestly, a 5-chapter one-shot could've made this story stronger and stand on its own. The art is stunning, as always. 3.5 stars
May 4, 2025
Finished book four of Rose of Versaille! And now we're talking!
The French Revolution is in full swing! I've been waiting for this since book two!
I'll give it to Ikeda. She's done her homework. There's constantly squares explaining the historic context during the story here. Because things happened fast during the revolution. So it's needed or you'd be totally lost.
And even though this story focuses on the drama and romance around Marie Antionette, von Fersen, André and Lord Oscar, Ikeda does not shy away from the darkness and violence of the revolution. Kudos for that, honestly. You can have both heartbreaking romance and darkness and violence. Well done, well done.
No spoiler if you know your history, but the king and Marie Antionette do die here. Unlike many readers I'm sure, I actually liked the king. He knew Marie Antionette didn't love him like a husband. He knows he's not that brave or a particularly good king. But he keeps trying his absolute best even if it doesn't always work out. And he really came into his own come the end of it here. A bit late my man, but you faced your end like a proper king.
The king is not the main character, but his story actually stood out to me here.
Lord Oscar and her men switch sides and join the revolutionaries. No one who has read the previous books should be surprised. It does not end well, but is a proper ending for a badass woman like Oscar honestly. Really good! And at least she and André got that one time…
Marie Antoinette and Hans Axel von Fersen got the same ending they did in real life. Head held high and broken hearts. Same as with the king though, Marie Antionette really came into her own as a queen at the end of it all. A bit too late, my lady, a bit too late…
And after the drama there's a bonus story based on the history of Lady Bathory! NICE!
My best friend warned me about the side character LouLou though. But I have to say, I actually liked that crazy girl! I got some Pippi Longstocking and Emil from Lönneberga vibes from her in all the best ways! Feeling sorry for her mom though…
All in all, this was a great conclusion to the main story and the bonus story was also really good! Going out with a bang!
One book left with more bonus stories!
The French Revolution is in full swing! I've been waiting for this since book two!
I'll give it to Ikeda. She's done her homework. There's constantly squares explaining the historic context during the story here. Because things happened fast during the revolution. So it's needed or you'd be totally lost.
And even though this story focuses on the drama and romance around Marie Antionette, von Fersen, André and Lord Oscar, Ikeda does not shy away from the darkness and violence of the revolution. Kudos for that, honestly. You can have both heartbreaking romance and darkness and violence. Well done, well done.
No spoiler if you know your history, but the king and Marie Antionette do die here. Unlike many readers I'm sure, I actually liked the king. He knew Marie Antionette didn't love him like a husband. He knows he's not that brave or a particularly good king. But he keeps trying his absolute best even if it doesn't always work out. And he really came into his own come the end of it here. A bit late my man, but you faced your end like a proper king.
The king is not the main character, but his story actually stood out to me here.
Lord Oscar and her men switch sides and join the revolutionaries. No one who has read the previous books should be surprised. It does not end well, but is a proper ending for a badass woman like Oscar honestly. Really good! And at least she and André got that one time…
Marie Antoinette and Hans Axel von Fersen got the same ending they did in real life. Head held high and broken hearts. Same as with the king though, Marie Antionette really came into her own as a queen at the end of it all. A bit too late, my lady, a bit too late…
And after the drama there's a bonus story based on the history of Lady Bathory! NICE!
My best friend warned me about the side character LouLou though. But I have to say, I actually liked that crazy girl! I got some Pippi Longstocking and Emil from Lönneberga vibes from her in all the best ways! Feeling sorry for her mom though…
All in all, this was a great conclusion to the main story and the bonus story was also really good! Going out with a bang!
One book left with more bonus stories!
May 31, 2025
This series is amazing, and the fourth and final volume is the best in my opinion.
The Rose of Versailles has everything; historical drama, queer romances, beautiful artwork and loveable characters, all set against the backdrop of the French Revolution.
While RoV is a romanticised and sometimes embellished historical retelling, it is remarkably accurate when it comes to depicting actual historic events, dates and people. If you’re interested in the actual history of the French Revolution then it’s not a bad place to start.
Of the three main characters - Oscar, Fersen and Marie Antoinette - Oscar is the only one who isn’t an actual historical figure. I think this is part of the reason why Lady Oscar has gone on to be such an icon and a fan favourite, as she doesn’t need to follow the historical paths that the others do. Oscar is free to be her own character and this works in her benefit as we see her grow and change, as the realities of the French Revolution unfold around her. I won’t spoil anything, but Oscar is the character that truly stands out, and she’s genuinely one of my all time favourite literary characters.
That isn’t to take anything away from Marie Antoinette’s portrayal either. But here we get to the elephant in the room. I’m not going to bother marking this as a spoiler, but the RoV doesn’t shy away from depicting the actual historical events of what happened to Marie Antoinette and her family. I often find it difficult to see historical figures as human beings. It’s difficult to see the real person under all the cultural osmosis and myth and (quite often) straight up propaganda. The RoV does a very good job of humanising Antoinette. Like Oscar, we follow her over a period of 20 years - starting when she’s in her mid-teens and ending when she’s in her mid-30’s, and like Oscar she’s very much not the same person at the end of the story as she was at the beginning. She starts off irritating and spoilt, but then you start to see things from her point of view. And then you start to like her. And then you start to hope that maybe (just maybe!) she’ll be okay. I lost count of the amount of times I cried during the last volume - as I knew what was coming and I just wanted to give her a hug. And all the while you’re reminded that she was a real person. She didn’t ask to be Queen. She was never given a choice. She was a victim of a system - the same system that starved the population and ultimately caused the revolution.
There’s just a few things I’d point out to someone if I was going to recommend RoV to them for the first time. I’d probably advise them to give the art and story style a chance, as the 70’s Japanese manga-style can seem a bit strange and off-putting at first. Stick with it and it will grow on you and I guarantee before long you’ll be completely won over. The other thing is that there are a few moments that haven’t aged well, and again I put that down mainly to the fact that RoV was written in the 70’s. That being said, I still think that as a whole the series is remarkably progressive for its time (and unfortunately in some ways it’s still more progressive than a lot of media in ours).
I know I’m repeating myself now, but The Rose of Versailles is amazing. It’s really good, and you should read it. Vive la France! 🇫🇷
The Rose of Versailles has everything; historical drama, queer romances, beautiful artwork and loveable characters, all set against the backdrop of the French Revolution.
While RoV is a romanticised and sometimes embellished historical retelling, it is remarkably accurate when it comes to depicting actual historic events, dates and people. If you’re interested in the actual history of the French Revolution then it’s not a bad place to start.
Of the three main characters - Oscar, Fersen and Marie Antoinette - Oscar is the only one who isn’t an actual historical figure. I think this is part of the reason why Lady Oscar has gone on to be such an icon and a fan favourite, as she doesn’t need to follow the historical paths that the others do. Oscar is free to be her own character and this works in her benefit as we see her grow and change, as the realities of the French Revolution unfold around her. I won’t spoil anything, but Oscar is the character that truly stands out, and she’s genuinely one of my all time favourite literary characters.
That isn’t to take anything away from Marie Antoinette’s portrayal either. But here we get to the elephant in the room. I’m not going to bother marking this as a spoiler, but the RoV doesn’t shy away from depicting the actual historical events of what happened to Marie Antoinette and her family. I often find it difficult to see historical figures as human beings. It’s difficult to see the real person under all the cultural osmosis and myth and (quite often) straight up propaganda. The RoV does a very good job of humanising Antoinette. Like Oscar, we follow her over a period of 20 years - starting when she’s in her mid-teens and ending when she’s in her mid-30’s, and like Oscar she’s very much not the same person at the end of the story as she was at the beginning. She starts off irritating and spoilt, but then you start to see things from her point of view. And then you start to like her. And then you start to hope that maybe (just maybe!) she’ll be okay. I lost count of the amount of times I cried during the last volume - as I knew what was coming and I just wanted to give her a hug. And all the while you’re reminded that she was a real person. She didn’t ask to be Queen. She was never given a choice. She was a victim of a system - the same system that starved the population and ultimately caused the revolution.
There’s just a few things I’d point out to someone if I was going to recommend RoV to them for the first time. I’d probably advise them to give the art and story style a chance, as the 70’s Japanese manga-style can seem a bit strange and off-putting at first. Stick with it and it will grow on you and I guarantee before long you’ll be completely won over. The other thing is that there are a few moments that haven’t aged well, and again I put that down mainly to the fact that RoV was written in the 70’s. That being said, I still think that as a whole the series is remarkably progressive for its time (and unfortunately in some ways it’s still more progressive than a lot of media in ours).
I know I’m repeating myself now, but The Rose of Versailles is amazing. It’s really good, and you should read it. Vive la France! 🇫🇷
June 26, 2024
i've finished the main story of the manga (i may read the side stories someday) just in time to see the musical adaption by the takarazuka revue next week! i can firmly say this is an absolute masterpiece of the medium. the characters, the story, the way the events unfold, the weaving of historical events with fictional ones...it's compelling until the very end and all the emotional beats, as dramatic as they are, feel absolutely heartrending. it breaks my heart that people in english speaking countries don't know this manga because it is so important to the history of shoujo and just manga as a whole. the effect this had on women in japan and how important it was to them should never be forgotten. i truly believe that oscar francois de jarjayes is one of the most important characters to come out of japan. she was ahead of her time and her influence in particular is written all over so many anime and manga even today. i will sing this manga's praises forever, it feels particularly personal to me, but it also makes me feel a part of a phenomenon that is so much larger than me. je t'aime, oscar !!!!!!
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December 16, 2023Oscar starts off the story as the main character but her story unravels at the end for me because I don't care much for her relationship with Andre and that becomes her main motivation of...living? Its interesting how the volume that has the weakest Oscar moments for me also has the shining moments of Marie's narrative, which makes because I mean, she's Marie Antionette and we all how her story ends.
The difficulty of writing a narrative about the French Revolution is balancing the narrative between the personal and the social brutality. Because we see the end through Marie's eyes and it doesn't hold its punches with how horrible it was for her however, the narrative reminds her as it reminds us that her earlier life was because of the suffering and death of the poor. It's kind of amazing how you know what happens (Marie and Louis get caught and executed) but Riyoko Ikeda still keeps the tension throughout the end by showing the little dominos fall into place. Also, it was really nice seeing Rosalie come back.
The difficulty of writing a narrative about the French Revolution is balancing the narrative between the personal and the social brutality. Because we see the end through Marie's eyes and it doesn't hold its punches with how horrible it was for her however, the narrative reminds her as it reminds us that her earlier life was because of the suffering and death of the poor. It's kind of amazing how you know what happens (Marie and Louis get caught and executed) but Riyoko Ikeda still keeps the tension throughout the end by showing the little dominos fall into place. Also, it was really nice seeing Rosalie come back.
December 20, 2024
This was a satisfying ending to the series for the most part. I liked it, but it's got most of the problems I have with shoujo manga, compounded by the problems I have with 70s manga. There are a lot of characters that aren't super easy to tell apart at a glance, and the plots are very interpersonal and can feel both contrived and convoluted. That actually lends itself pretty well to the French Revolution though, and all of the characters get compelling endings. The little spin off mystery with Oscar at the end is decent, and leans even harder into the gay elements for better and worse. Oscar is so beloved that her queerness is mostly accepted throughout, but there's a through line of women loving women as forbidden fruit that the just and morally right characters must resist. Apparently these lesbian-ish stories are a thing in older shoujo. On the one hand it's pretty regressive, but it's also interesting because the work leans into the attraction to girls in a way that I wouldn't think would resonate with straight female teen readers.
July 25, 2024
4.25 stars!
Damn this made me sad...
I love Oscar so much, she's my fave character. And even though knowing how history played out, for some reason I was still not expecting it to be so heartbreaking. The French Revolution was bloody, cruel, and unrelenting. This series show just that, but also deep empathy for both sides of the equation. Marie Antoinette was a spendthrift and an even more ignorant Queen, but she was also a mother. I hated her character the first few books, but couldn't help but feel sad for her demise.
I can't believe it's the end. I didn't want to let these characters go. The last installment is just short stories, which I'm still looking forward to reading, mostly to revisit my dear Oscar and to be in the world again. But right now, I'll just have to accept that their stories have all ended.
Damn this made me sad...
I love Oscar so much, she's my fave character. And even though knowing how history played out, for some reason I was still not expecting it to be so heartbreaking. The French Revolution was bloody, cruel, and unrelenting. This series show just that, but also deep empathy for both sides of the equation. Marie Antoinette was a spendthrift and an even more ignorant Queen, but she was also a mother. I hated her character the first few books, but couldn't help but feel sad for her demise.
I can't believe it's the end. I didn't want to let these characters go. The last installment is just short stories, which I'm still looking forward to reading, mostly to revisit my dear Oscar and to be in the world again. But right now, I'll just have to accept that their stories have all ended.
June 22, 2024
Everything hurts.
I think Oscar has become one of my all-time favourite characters.
Her relationship with her place in the world as a woman but also a noble was so interesting to explore. A deeply complex journey of navigating her place in the world and following her beliefs until the bitter end.
The shift in narrative back to Marie Antoinette was a little jarring given to the context of what happened previously - but I did enjoy the story coming full circle back to her, from her birth to her death.
Won't lie, was never a massive fan of Andre, and the odd twisting of Oscar's motivations as a result of their relationship.
I didn't expect to end up loving RoV, but I really do cherish this series, and I have such a growing interest in reading Ikeda's other works.
I think Oscar has become one of my all-time favourite characters.
Her relationship with her place in the world as a woman but also a noble was so interesting to explore. A deeply complex journey of navigating her place in the world and following her beliefs until the bitter end.
The shift in narrative back to Marie Antoinette was a little jarring given to the context of what happened previously - but I did enjoy the story coming full circle back to her, from her birth to her death.
Won't lie, was never a massive fan of Andre, and the odd twisting of Oscar's motivations as a result of their relationship.
I didn't expect to end up loving RoV, but I really do cherish this series, and I have such a growing interest in reading Ikeda's other works.
September 12, 2024
For fans of Rose of Versailles:
- Oscar & Andre
- Tribute
- Lady Oscar
Well this volume contains how Oscar conquers the heart of men in the army and is so interesting in see her earn their respect. And then we have one of the best character complexity regard her inner battles on her womanhood when her dad wants her married...and Andre...I was so devastated for him especially the part when he cannot even court her like a man because he is a servant and not a nobleman, it was so sad 🤧
But I was so happy seeing how the author used Oscar's first kiss by Andre take a role in realizing that she wants to be kissed by Andre and that she loves him after the confrontation with her dad. I was very glad to see that their relationship begun earlier then in the anime, were they had one night of passion. And yes the love scene was so touching from all the right reasons, this is how you make a good romance and a love scene, it was full of depth, love, passion, gentleness, understanding. This scene made you realize the depth of their bond!
I still have the last volume but I am dreading to begin it because I know the tragic end and I still do not want to depart from Oscar and Andre yet....
- Oscar & Andre
- Tribute
- Lady Oscar
Well this volume contains how Oscar conquers the heart of men in the army and is so interesting in see her earn their respect. And then we have one of the best character complexity regard her inner battles on her womanhood when her dad wants her married...and Andre...I was so devastated for him especially the part when he cannot even court her like a man because he is a servant and not a nobleman, it was so sad 🤧
But I was so happy seeing how the author used Oscar's first kiss by Andre take a role in realizing that she wants to be kissed by Andre and that she loves him after the confrontation with her dad. I was very glad to see that their relationship begun earlier then in the anime, were they had one night of passion. And yes the love scene was so touching from all the right reasons, this is how you make a good romance and a love scene, it was full of depth, love, passion, gentleness, understanding. This scene made you realize the depth of their bond!
I still have the last volume but I am dreading to begin it because I know the tragic end and I still do not want to depart from Oscar and Andre yet....
June 12, 2023
Totally forgot Oscar and Andre die :(
The shift after that back to Marie Antoinette’s fate is jarring. It becomes less story and more factual. We all knew how it would end but idk. I cared much more about Oscar’s story than Marie Antoinette.
Really bummed out my library system doesn’t have book five even though they’re just bonus stories. I was surprised an extra based on Elizabeth Bathory was included but I really loved it. Oscar + Andre + Rosalie was my favorite era and I’m a huge gothic romance fan!
Glad I finally read this classic!!!!
The shift after that back to Marie Antoinette’s fate is jarring. It becomes less story and more factual. We all knew how it would end but idk. I cared much more about Oscar’s story than Marie Antoinette.
Really bummed out my library system doesn’t have book five even though they’re just bonus stories. I was surprised an extra based on Elizabeth Bathory was included but I really loved it. Oscar + Andre + Rosalie was my favorite era and I’m a huge gothic romance fan!
Glad I finally read this classic!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2024
Fascinating series. It's easy to see why Lady Oscar is one of manga's most enduring characters, she's definitely become one of my favorites! Looking forward to checking out the anime & movies & annoying my friends about this series.
February 29, 2024
Best volume of the series and incredible conclusion (fifth volume contains some new short stories Riyoko Ikeda had done some years later)! I think I couldn't ask for a better one. Even the short story after the conclusion is pretty cool.
September 10, 2024
I didn’t pick up this manga series to learn about the French Revolution. I liked Oscar lol. And when they killed her in the first third of the book, I almost DNFed it.
I also really didn’t care for Oscar and Andre’s love story?? Didn’t he SA her just last book? 🥴 Not a fan.
I also really didn’t care for Oscar and Andre’s love story?? Didn’t he SA her just last book? 🥴 Not a fan.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2025
While the love story between Oscar and Andrè reaches its climax (what a drama queen the latter is 💜), the pawns that will lead to the French Revolution fall into place. This volume is easily readable in one sitting!
June 19, 2025
4.25/5⭐️
The ending of the series was very good! I was very shocked that Oscar died so early in the volume. I wish we got to see Marie Antionette and Fersen mourn Oscar, that would’ve been heartbreaking.
And I did not like the extra side story, that was very stupid (but surprising gruesome).
The ending of the series was very good! I was very shocked that Oscar died so early in the volume. I wish we got to see Marie Antionette and Fersen mourn Oscar, that would’ve been heartbreaking.
And I did not like the extra side story, that was very stupid (but surprising gruesome).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2025
Although it might be dismissed because it's manga, The Rose of Versailles is actually a pretty good cursory account of what led up to the French Revolution. While it is fiction, and Oscar is a made up character, it's still worth a read for semi-academic reasons even if it is a romance manga.
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