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Memoirs of the Court of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France, Volume 2 Being the Historic Memoirs of Madam Campan, First Lady in Waiting to the Queen   By: (1752-1822)

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Memoirs of the Court of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France, Volume 2 provides a fascinating insight into the life of Queen Marie Antoinette through the eyes of her Lady in Waiting, Madam Campan. The book is filled with personal anecdotes, political intrigue, and details of the opulent yet troubled world of the French court.

Campan's writing is vivid and captivating, pulling the reader into the glittering world of Versailles and the tumultuous events leading up to the French Revolution. Her intimate knowledge of the Queen and the courtiers adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, making it a compelling read for history enthusiasts.

Through Campan's eyes, we see Marie Antoinette not just as a distant historical figure, but as a complex and flawed human being struggling to navigate the treacherous waters of court politics and public opinion. The book offers a rare glimpse into the private life of the Queen, shedding light on her relationships, her struggles, and her legacy.

Overall, Memoirs of the Court of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France, Volume 2 is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the French Revolution, the French court, or the life of Marie Antoinette. Campan's writing is engaging and informative, bringing to life a turbulent period in French history with elegance and grace.

First Page:

MEMOIRS OF THE COURT OF MARIE ANTOINETTE,

QUEEN OF FRANCE

Being the Historic Memoirs of Madam Campan,

First Lady in Waiting to the Queen

CHAPTER I.

I was fifteen years of age when I was appointed reader to Mesdames. I will begin by describing the Court at that period.

Maria Leczinska was just dead; the death of the Dauphin had preceded hers by three years; the Jesuits were suppressed, and piety was to be found at Court only in the apartments of Mesdames. The Duc de Choiseuil ruled.

Etiquette still existed at Court with all the forms it had acquired under Louis XIV.; dignity alone was wanting. As to gaiety, there was none. Versailles was not the place at which to seek for assemblies where French spirit and grace were displayed. The focus of wit and intelligence was Paris.

The King thought of nothing but the pleasures of the chase: it might have been imagined that the courtiers indulged themselves in making epigrams by hearing them say seriously, on those days when the King did not hunt, "The King does nothing to day." [In sporting usance (see SOULAIRE, p. 316).]

The arrangement beforehand of his movements was also a matter of great importance with Louis XV. On the first day of the year he noted down in his almanac the days of departure for Compiegne, Fontainebleau, Choisy, etc... Continue reading book >>


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