Souvenirs de Charles-Henri Baron de Gleichen

A vivid portrait of eighteenth‑century court life unfolds through the eyes of a German baron who moved seamlessly between the salons of Bayreuth, Paris and Rome. Born into a modest noble family, he entered the service of the margrave’s household and soon found himself at the heart of European aristocracy, forming friendships with poets, philosophers and diplomats. His letters and recollections capture the personal side of an age often only known through grand histories.

The memoir weaves together episodes ranging from the reigns of Ferdinand VI and Charles III of Spain to the enigmatic tale of the iron mask, from the intrigues of the Duc de Choiseul to the curious world of alchemy and the convulsionnaires. Each chapter offers a concise vignette—brief, witty, and sometimes scandalous—that brings historical figures to life with a blend of admiration and candid observation. Readers are treated to the baron’s keen eye for detail and his knack for turning court gossip into compelling narrative.

Beyond the grand events, the work is a personal journey, revealing the author’s own aspirations, loves and disappointments. His affection for the celebrated Duchess de Choiseul, for instance, adds an intimate layer to the political backdrop. Listeners will find a rich tapestry of anecdotes that both enlighten and entertain, offering a fresh perspective on a transformative period in European history.