Madam Pompadur
Madame Pompadour (1878) by the Goncourt brothers follows the life of Jeanne-Antoinette Poisson, known as Madame de Pompadour (1721–1764), mistress of King Louis XV of France and one of the most influential women of the 18th century.
The book details her rise from bourgeois origins to the center of the French court at Versailles. The Goncourt brothers, known for their naturalistic style, portray Pompadour as an intelligent, charming, and ambitious woman who shaped French politics and the arts through her art and cultural patronage.
The novel explores her role in promoting the Enlightenment, supporting artists such as Voltaire, and influencing the king's decisions, including diplomatic negotiations during the Seven Years' War. Her relationship with Louis XV is depicted as a complex mix of love, power, and pragmatism, as she grappled with court intrigue and health problems.
The Goncourts use rich descriptions and historical documents to bring to life the splendor of Versailles and Pompadour's charisma. The book emphasizes her ability to manipulate social and political structures, but also the price she paid for her position. This work remains a classic account of one of the most fascinating women in French history.
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