Title: Les Rois Maudits Vols 1-3
Author: Maurice Druon
First published January 1, 1965
654 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9782259202824 (ISBN10: 2259202829)
Rating: 4.29
Overview
“They are all cursed, up to the seventh generation!” These were the words uttered by the leader of the Templars, as he burned at the stake, directed at the face of King Philip IV of France. The year was 1314, and the prophecy came true.
For over half a century, kings came and went on the throne of France, never staying there for long. From palace intrigues to sudden deaths, from dynastic revolutions to bloody wars, it was a dance of the cursed kings.
The future of France was at stake during these dark years, a tumultuous period in history. It was an extraordinary era, never dull, always filled with romance…
The author understood this well, as he narrates the secret stories of the kingdom and its people, of their passions and weaknesses that often changed the fate of France.
About the Author
Maurice Druon hailed from Paris and had a notable lineage as the nephew of writer Joseph Kessel. Together, they wrote the Chant des Partisans, which served as a French Resistance anthem during World War II.
Druon’s novel Les grandes familles earned him the prestigious Prix Goncourt in 1948, and he was later elected to the Académie française’s 30th seat in 1966, succeeding Georges Duhamel.
While he was recognized for his academic writing, Druon’s most celebrated works were his seven historical novels, collectively known as Les Rois Maudits or The Accursed Kings, published during the 1950s. He also served as the Minister of Cultural Affairs in Pierre Messmer’s cabinet from 1973 to 1974 and was a Parisian deputy from 1978 to 1981.
Editoral Review
Les Rois Maudits Vols 1-3 by Maurice Druon is a historical fiction novel that was first published on January 1, 1965. The book is part of a seven-part series and is set in the 14th century during the reign of King Philip IV of France, also known as Philip the Fair.
The novel explores the political and social turmoil that occurred during this time and the events that led to the downfall of the Knights Templar. Maurice Druon was a French writer who was best known for this series, which has been an inspiration for many popular works of historical fiction.
Les Rois Maudits has been translated into multiple languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide. The novel portrays a complex web of characters that includes royalty, clergy, and commoners.
The protagonist of the story is Robert of Artois, a nobleman with an insatiable desire for power and revenge. The story is set against the backdrop of a power struggle between the monarchy and the church, and the conflict between the king and the Knights Templar.
The story is masterfully crafted, and the characters are well-developed and memorable. Druon’s writing style is rich in detail and captures the essence of 14th-century France.
The pacing of the novel is excellent, and the plot twists and turns keep the reader engaged. One of the strengths of the novel is its historical accuracy.
Druon has done extensive research on the period and has created a compelling narrative that is both informative and entertaining. The novel’s themes of power, corruption, and revenge are timeless and resonate with readers to this day.
However, there are some limitations to the novel. The large cast of characters can be overwhelming, and it can be challenging to keep track of everyone.
Also, some of the storylines could have been better developed, and some of the characters could have been given more depth. Overall, Les Rois Maudits is a masterpiece of historical fiction that deserves to be read by anyone interested in the genre.
The book is highly recommended for those who enjoy political dramas, action, and historical accuracy. The novel is an excellent depiction of 14th-century France, and its themes are relevant even in modern times.
The Les Rois Maudits Vols 1-3 by Maurice Druon is a historical fiction masterpiece, and it deserves a score of 9 out of 10. The book is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a compelling narrative and a fascinating depiction of a crucial period in European history.
