Marie Antoinette

Name: Marie Antoinette
Author: Hilaire Belloc

By Hilaire Belloc

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Biographies History - Early Modern (c. 1450-1750)History - European History - Royalty

About This Book

The narrative traces the life of the French queen from her dynastic upbringing and marriage into the royal household through court life, scandals, and political crises. It chronicles episodes such as intrigues surrounding court favorites, the notorious jewel affair, popular uprisings, a failed royal escape, wartime strains and the collapse of the monarchy, followed by imprisonment and death. The author treats these events as a convergence of personal impulses, misjudgments, and larger impersonal forces, arguing for a sense of tragic destiny. The volume is organized chronologically and supplemented with illustrations, maps, and documentary appendices.

About the Author

Hilaire Belloc

Hilaire Belloc was a prolific English writer, historian, and political activist known for his diverse contributions to literature and thought. Born in 1870, he wrote extensively on topics ranging from economics to poetry, and his works often reflect his deep Catholic faith and interest in European history. Among his notable works is "Cautionary Tales for Children," a collection of humorous and moralistic verses that have delighted readers for generations. Belloc's essays and historical analyses, such as "A General Sketch of the European War: The First Phase," showcase his sharp wit and keen insights into the political landscape of his time. His literary legacy continues to influence writers and thinkers today.