Philip Mansel (15:15)

The ultimate biography of the Sun King, Louis XIV - Simon Sebag Montefiore

Louis XIV, King of France and Navarre, dominated his age. Drawing on the latest research in France, Britain and America, Philip Mansel, leading historian of France and Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, will explore Louis’s relationship with Scotland from the Garde Ecossaise, personal bodyguards to the French monarchy, to his defence of the interests of the Stuarts allied to him by ties of blood.

Mansel will show how Louis’s political and military acumen enabled him to extend France's frontiers into the Netherlands and Germany, and to establish colonies in America, Africa and India. One of the greatest patrons of European history, he built the stupendous palace at Versailles, the envy of monarchs Europe-wide, frequently imitated but never surpassed. In all his palaces, Louis encouraged dancing, hunting, music and gambling. He loved conversation, especially with women.

The talk will take place against the tapestries gifted by Louis to Lord Stair, a cousin of Lord Dumfries.

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