Now after analyzing the day in the life of King Louie, you will examine and analyze The Duc de Saint-Simon, who was a minor nobleman, who lived for many years at Versailles. He wrote extensive and often gossipy memoirs of his years in King Louis XIV’s court. As you read this excerpt, consider Saint-Simon as a source. Why might his memoirs give us insight into the court and its elaborate etiquette? Why did he think Louis XIV made such a big deal about small privileges? How might Saint-Simon’s own position have colored his account? Did Saint-Simon like Louis XIV or think that he was an effective ruler? Why or why not?
