This lively and accessible biography focuses on Louis' personal life while keeping the needs of the history student at the forefront, featuring analysis of Louis' wider significance in history and the surrounding historiography. This book balances the undeniable cultural achievements of the reign against the realities of Louis' egotism and argues that, when viewed critically, Louis' rule (1643-1715) personified the disadvantages of absolute monarchy and inexorably led to social and political blunders resulting in the suffering of millions. This second edition now includes more on the women at Louis' court, France in an international context and new material looking at Louis' involvement in ballet.
