French Literature and the Sun King: The Influence of Louis XIV

This book explores the profound and lasting impact of Louis XIV's reign on French literature, tracing how the Sun King's absolutist monarchy shaped the intellectual and cultural landscape of 17th-century France. Through a detailed analysis of the literary works produced during this period, the book examines the ways in which writers such as Molière, Racine, Corneille, Boileau, and Madame de La Fayette both reinforced and subtly critiqued the monarchy's ideals of order, morality, and discipline. It delves into the political, social, and philosophical themes embedded in the literature of the time, showing how the court of Louis XIV at Versailles became a powerful center for intellectual exchange, where literature served not only as a tool for entertainment but also for consolidating royal authority and moral control. Additionally, the book investigates how the decline of Louis XIV's absolute monarchy, combined with the rise of Enlightenment ideals, spurred a dramatic shift in French literature, paving the way for new forms of expression, critical thought, and individual freedom. Ultimately, it highlights the dual legacy of Louis XIV's cultural patronage—both as a means of political consolidation and as the foundation for the intellectual revolution that would unfold in the 18th century.