Memoirs of the Courts of Louis XV and XVI   By: Marie Thérèse Louise de Savoie-Carignan Lamballe (1749-1792)

Memoirs of the Courts of Louis XV and XVI by Marie Thérèse Louise de Savoie-Carignan Lamballe provides a fascinating firsthand account of life in the French royal courts during the reigns of Louis XV and Louis XVI. As a close confidante of Queen Marie Antoinette, Lamballe offers unique insights into the political intrigues, social customs, and personal relationships that shaped the era.

Lamballe's prose is elegant and engaging, drawing readers into the glamorous yet ultimately tragic world of the French monarchy. Her descriptions of the lavish balls, sumptuous feasts, and intricate courtly protocols provide a vivid backdrop to the tumultuous events that would ultimately lead to the downfall of the royal family.

One of the most compelling aspects of Lamballe's memoir is her intimate portrayal of Marie Antoinette, whom she describes with warmth and admiration. Through Lamballe's eyes, we see the queen not as a distant figure of myth and legend, but as a complex and vulnerable woman thrust into a role she was ill-prepared to fulfill.

Overall, Memoirs of the Courts of Louis XV and XVI is a valuable historical document that sheds light on a pivotal period in French history. Lamballe's candid observations and keen insights make this a must-read for anyone interested in the lives of the royal courts of 18th-century France.

First Page:

We were obliged by circumstances, at one time, to read all the published memoirs relative to the reign of Louis XV., and had the opportunity of reading many others which may not see the light for a long time yet to come, as their publication at present would materially militate against the interest of the descendants of the writers; and we have no hesitation in saying that the Memoirs of Madame du Hausset are the only perfectly sincere ones amongst all those we know. Sometimes, Madame du Hausset mistakes, through ignorance, but never does she wilfully mislead, like Madame Campan, nor keep back a secret, like Madame Roland, and MM. Bezenval and Ferreires; nor is she ever betrayed by her vanity to invent, like the Due de Lauzun, MM... Continue reading book >>