Title
King of the World: The Life of Louis XIV,New
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Louis XIV was a man in pursuit of glory. Not content to be the ruler of a world power, he wanted the power to rule the world. And, for a time, he came tantalizingly close.Philip Mansels King of the World is the most comprehensive and uptodate biography in English of this hypnotic, flawed figure who continues to captivate our attention. This lively work takes Louis outside Versailles and shows the true extent of his global ambitions, with stops in London, Madrid, Constantinople, Bangkok, and beyond. We witness the importance of his alliance with the Spanish crown and his success in securing Spain for his descendants, his enmity with England, and his relations with the rest of Europe, as well as Asia, Africa, and the Americas. We also see the kings effect on the two great global diasporas of Huguenots and Jacobites, and their influence on him as he failed in his brutal attempts to stop Protestants from leaving France. Along the way, we are enveloped in the splendor of Louiss court and the fascinating cast of characters who prostrated and plotted within it.King of the World is exceptionally researched, drawing on international archives and incorporating sources who knew the king intimately, including the newly released correspondence of Louiss second wife, Madame de Maintenon. Mansels narrative flair is a perfect match for this grand figure, and he brings the Sun Kings world to vivid life.This is a global biography of a global king, whose power was extensive but also limited by laws and circumstances, and whose interests and ambitions stretched far beyond his homeland. Through it all, we watch Louis XIV progressively turn from a dazzling, attractive young king to a belligerent reactionary who sets France on the path to 1789. It is a convincing and compelling portrait of a man who, three hundred years after his death, still epitomizes the idea of le grand monarque.
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- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: This book contains six hundred eight pages. It offers a comprehensive exploration of Louis XIV's life and reign.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The book is bound in hardcover. This ensures durability and a premium feel, perfect for collectors.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The dimensions of the book are six inches in length, two point one inches in width, and nine point zero two inches in height.
- Q: Who is the author of King of the World? A: The author is Philip Mansel. He is known for his insightful biographies and historical narratives.
- Q: Is this book suitable for young readers? A: This book is recommended for older teens and adults due to its complex themes and historical content.
- Q: What themes are explored in this biography? A: The biography explores themes of power, glory, and the global ambitions of Louis XIV. It vividly portrays his reign and impact.
- Q: How should I store this hardcover book? A: Store the book in a cool, dry place, upright on a shelf to maintain its shape. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Q: Can this book be cleaned if it gets dirty? A: Yes, you can wipe the cover with a dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaners that may damage the pages.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact customer support for a return or exchange. Keep the original packaging for reference.
- Q: Is this book a good gift for history enthusiasts? A: Yes, it makes an excellent gift for history enthusiasts. Its detailed research and engaging narrative will captivate readers.
- Q: How does this book compare to other biographies of Louis XIV? A: This biography is the most comprehensive and up-to-date in English. It offers unique insights and newly released correspondence.
- Q: What is the main focus of King of the World? A: The main focus is on Louis XIV's pursuit of power and glory, and how his reign influenced global politics and culture.
- Q: Are there illustrations or maps in the book? A: No, this biography primarily consists of text. It focuses on narrative storytelling rather than visual aids.
- Q: Is the book part of a series? A: No, King of the World is a standalone biography. It does not belong to a series but stands alone in its comprehensive coverage.
- Q: What historical periods does the book cover? A: The book covers the reign of Louis XIV, primarily from the seventeenth century to the early eighteenth century.