Memoirs of the Court of Louis XIV. and of the Regency — Volume 02

A rare, candid glimpse into the glittering yet fragile world of the Sun King’s court comes from the hand of Madame Elizabeth‑Charlotte of Bavaria, the mother of the future Regent. Her memoirs weave personal anecdotes with the broader politics of the early reign, offering listeners an intimate portrait of Versailles when it was still shaping France’s destiny. The narrative’s strength lies in its unvarnished voice, recalling moments that official histories often gloss over.

Through her eyes we meet the striking contrast between Louis XIV and his younger brother, Monsieur. The king appears dignified, passionate for hunting, music and theatre, while his brother is painted as a diminutive, flamboyant figure who prefers masquerades, high‑heeled dances and the ringing of church bells. Madame’s reflections on love, jealousy, and the fragile alliances within her own marriage add a human note to the grand spectacle, making the early days of the regency feel both personal and vivid.