What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to reassess the role of Louis XV's health and character in shaping public perceptions and its implications for his rule.

The King's Medical Body: Public Perceptions of Louis XV's Character and Health in Edmond-Jean-François Barbier's Journal

View Full Paper

Ask AI

Bookmark

The aim is to reassess the role of Louis XV's health and character in shaping public perceptions and its implications for his rule.
Analysis of Edmond-Jean-François Barbier's journal from 1718 to 1763
Examination of changing emotional sensibilities regarding kingship
Assessment of public scrutiny of Louis XV's corporeality
Public anxiety focused on Louis XV's health as a measure of his fitness to rule.
Fluctuating public hope and disillusionment were evident, contradicting a steady decline in support.
Medical knowledge influenced perceptions of the king's ability to embody ideals of kingship.

No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.

This article reassesses how public perceptions of Louis XV's health influenced views on his rule, highlighting fluctuating hopes and concerns.

Christophe Gillain (2026) studied this question.

View Full Paper

Ask AI

Bookmark

This article reassesses how public perceptions of Louis XV's health influenced views on his rule, highlighting fluctuating hopes and concerns.