King of the World: The Life of Louis XIV

Simon Sebag Montefiore's "King of the World: Louis XIV" is the winner of the 2019 Franco-British Society Book Prize. It is the ultimate biography of the Sun King who dominated his age, extended France's frontiers, built Versailles, and established colonies overseas. He was obsessed with government details but his wars devastated the country's finances. By his death, he had helped make his grandson king of Spain and France had taken its shape today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 640 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The captivating biography of the Sun King, Louis XIV, by Simon Sebag Montefiore, delves into the life and reign of this influential monarch who dominated his age. Through his expansive conquests, Louis extended France's frontiers into the Netherlands and Germany, establishing colonies overseas. His magnificent palace at Versailles, a symbol of his power and grandeur, became the envy of monarchs across Europe. Louis fostered a vibrant atmosphere in his palaces, encouraging dancing, hunting, music, and gambling. He also had a deep fascination with women, recognizing their significant influence in his life and reign. This book explores the power of women in Louis's life and reign, highlighting their roles and contributions.

While Louis was meticulous in his attention to government details, the cost of building palaces and waging continuous wars devastated France's finances, contributing to the country's eventual revolution. Despite these challenges, Louis played a pivotal role in shaping the course of history. By his death, he had helped make his grandson king of Spain, where his descendants still reign, and France had taken on the shape it has today.

"King of the World" is the most comprehensive and up-to-date biography of Louis XIV available in English. Drawing on the latest research, Montefiore presents a compelling and convincing portrait of this enigmatic figure who continues to epitomize the concept of le grand monarque, or the great monarch. This book offers a deep understanding of Louis XIV's life, achievements, and legacy, making it a valuable resource for scholars, history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the fascinating world of medieval Europe.

Weight: 476g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241960585