L'affaire du bonnet et les Mémoires de Saint-Simon

Delving into the tangled world of eighteenth‑century France, this work brings to life a curious scandal that began with a seemingly innocuous bonnet. Through meticulous archival research, the author reconstructs the heated debates, courtroom manoeuvres, and social ripples that the incident provoked, revealing how a small object could ignite broader tensions between the crown, the parlement, and provincial authorities.

Interwoven with the scandal are vivid excerpts from the memoirs of a prominent courtier, whose keen observations illuminate daily life at the royal court and the fragile balance of power. The narrative blends scholarly precision with an engaging storytelling style, allowing listeners to hear the voices of the past while gaining a nuanced picture of the era’s politics, customs, and personalities. This combination of scandal and memoir offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in French history, inviting you to explore the subtle forces that shaped the nation’s destiny.