The Age of Magnificence : The Memoirs of the Duc de Saint-Simon by Duc De Saint-Simon selected and edited by Ted Morgan

The Age of Magnificence: The Memoirs of the Duc de Saint-Simon, edited and translated by Ted Morgan, offers a vivid glimpse into the opulent and intricate world of Louis XIV's court at Versailles. Louis de Rouvroy, duc de Saint-Simon (1675–1755), a French nobleman and courtier, provides firsthand accounts of the political intrigues, personal rivalries, and ceremonial grandeur that defined the Sun King's reign.

This contains a curated selection from Saint-Simon's extensive multi-volume memoirs, emphasizing the more scandalous and absurd aspects of court life. Morgan's translation captures the author's sharp wit and keen observations, making the text accessible to contemporary readers while preserving its historical richness. The memoirs delve into the complexities of aristocratic society, highlighting Saint-Simon's critical perspective on the social hierarchy and his detailed portrayals of notable figures of the era.

Paperback, 1990

Goodreads: 3.86