George IV: The grand entertainment - Hardcover

Steven Parissien

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 071955652X ISBN 13: 9780719556524

Publisher: John Murray, 2001

Synopsis

In this biography, Steven Parissien aims to present George IV against the cultural background of his age, showing how his behaviour affected the contemporary view of both the monarch and the monarchy, and how his energies and ambitions focused upon the artistic, architectural and social splendour with which many now associate him.

About this title

From Library Journal:

Parissien's biography of King George IV is a thoroughly researched analysis of how George came to be "one of the most despised" monarchs of all time. His childhood is described as "spartan" and "unnecessarily harsh." His father, George III, spent little time preparing his son for his future role, and it is likely that this played a part in his later indolence and debauchery. With many deficiencies to choose from, Parissien (Yale Univ.) is most troubled by George IV's inconstancy. Whether with friends, women, or political principals, self-gratification was always his ultimate imperative. His more positive critics tried to portray him as a great patron of art and architecture, and he himself tried to promote the fictional image of himself as military hero, incredibly believing he largely contributed to Napoleon's defeat. But Parissien shows how George's obsession with emulating the French monarchy with all its unpopularity and excesses reveals his inept "political wisdom." Even his own daughter wasn't spared from his utter selfishness. Mercilessly caricatured later in life, George IV left the legacy of a lecherous glutton who "sundered the contract between monarch and nation." This detailed work will most likely appeal to those who regularly read historical biography, though it is accessibly written and contains some juicy tidbits. Recommended for large public libraries. Isabel Coates, Canada Customs & Revenue Agency, ON
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Review:

"This genial book succeeds as an exuberant cultural tour of palaces and paintings, rouges and hussies - truly 'Grand Entertainment.'" Simon Sebag Montefiore. -- Financial Times "A well-informed and elegant assessment of George's impact on Regency times, especially its culture." -- Sunday Telegraph, Saul David "Parissien writes with particular engagement and authority." Adam Zamoyski. -- Sunday Times

About this edition

• Publisher: John Murray
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 071955652X
• ISBN 13: 9780719556524
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 447