Louis XIV, France and Europe, 1661-1715

This second edition charts the reign of Louis XIV and assesses the extent to which he personified absolutism. Drawing upon recent historical research, the author examines historians' views on how far Louis' powers were limited and whether the only respect in which he was 'great' was in the realm of presentation and propaganda. The lively text also examines Louis' religious and foreign policies, and his personality and private life.