King Candaules

Name: King Candaules
Author: Théophile Gautier

By Théophile Gautier

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French Literature Novels

About This Book

An ancient court drama recounts a king's obsessive pride in his wife's unrivaled beauty, which leads him to compel his trusted guard to observe the queen unclothed. The resulting breach of trust forces the guard into an impossible moral choice engineered by the affronted wife, and his decision produces a violent resolution that overturns authority and alters dynastic fortunes. Themes of voyeurism, secrecy, honor, and the corrosive effects of possessiveness are explored through richly described ceremonies, courtly life, and the psychological consequences of betrayal.

About the Author

Théophile Gautier

Théophile Gautier (1811-1872) was a French poet, novelist, and art critic, known for his contributions to the Romantic movement. His literary works often blend fantasy and realism, showcasing his fascination with beauty and the exotic. Gautier's notable works include the novel "Mademoiselle de Maupin," which explores themes of gender and identity, and the short story collection "One of Cleopatra's Nights and Other Fantastic Romances," which reflects his interest in the supernatural. He was also a close associate of Charles Baudelaire and played a significant role in the literary culture of 19th-century France.