Louis XIV (1638-1715) was king of France from 1643 to 1715. He brought the French monarchy to its peak of absolute power and made France the dominant power in Europe. His reign is also associated with the greatest age of French culture and art. After...

In the following excerpt, Lowenthal discusses the writings of three French dramatists within the context of the emergence of the middle class during the seventeenth century.

In the following excerpt, Lough discusses the changing social status of the theatre during the seventeenth century and the composition of theatre audiences, observing that the middle classes were strongly represented.

In the following excerpt, Gethner contends that a political dimension is typically present in seventeenth-century French tragicomedies and is often closely related to other elements of the plot.

Discusses the life of King Louis XIV of France. Examines his lavish spending and describes why he is the model that future rulers looked to for example Fredrick the Great and Napoleon. Explores how he reshaped France and the rest of Europe as well.

Essay discusses the validity of this statement: "Louis XIV's chief asset as a political leader was his ability to defuse class tensions in France".

Discusses the reign of French King Louis XIV, also called the Sun King. Includes information on his government, the building of Versailles, and his economic downfall.