The Memoirs of Cardinal de Retz By: Jean François Paul de Gondi de Retz (1613-1679)
In The Memoirs of Cardinal de Retz, readers are transported back to 17th century France, where the life and adventures of the enigmatic cardinal unfold with drama, intrigue, and political turmoil. Through his witty and insightful narration, de Retz offers a candid glimpse into the machinations of the French court, including his own ambitious schemes and conflicts with other powerful figures. The memoirs are not only a fascinating firsthand account of a turbulent period in history, but also a thought-provoking meditation on power, morality, and the complexities of human nature. De Retz's candid self-reflection and sharp wit make for a compelling read, as he navigates the treacherous waters of court politics and personal rivalries with skill and cunning. Overall, The Memoirs of Cardinal de Retz is a captivating and engaging read that offers a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in French history. De Retz's colorful personality and keen insights make this memoir a must-read for anyone interested in politics, power, and the human condition. First Page: MEMOIRS OF JEAN FRANCOIS PAUL de GONDI, CARDINAL DE RETZ Written by Himself Being Historic Court Memoirs of the Great Events during the Minority of Louis XIV. and the Administration of Cardinal Mazarin. CONTENTS BOOK I. BOOK II. BOOK III. BOOK IV. BOOK V. ILLUSTRATIONS Cardinal de Retz Photogravure from an Old Painting Turenne Photogravure from an Old Painting Richelieu Engraving by Lubin Anne of Austria Original Etching by Mercier Louis XIII Painting in the Louvre Conde' Painting in Versailles Gallery ORIGINAL PREFACE. Our Author, John Francis Paul de Gondi, Cardinal de Retz, Sovereign of Commercy, Prince of Euville, second Archbishop of Paris, Abbot of Saint Denis in France, was born at Montmirail, in Brie, in October, 1614. His father was Philippe Emanuel de Gondi, Comte, de Joigni, General of the Galleys of France and Knight of the King's Orders; and his mother was Frances Marguerite, daughter of the Comte de Rochepot, Knight of the King's Orders, and of Marie de Lannoy, sovereign of Commercy and Euville. Pierre de Gondi, Duc de Retz, was his brother, whose daughter was the Duchesse de Lesdiguieres. His grandfather was Albert de Gondi, Duc de Retz, Marquis de Belle Isle, a Peer of France, Marshal and General of the Galleys, Colonel of the French Horse, First Gentleman of the Bedchamber, and Great Chamberlain to the Kings Charles IX... Continue reading book >>

The Memoirs of Cardinal de Retz By: Jean François Paul de Gondi de Retz (1613-1679)

In The Memoirs of Cardinal de Retz, readers are transported back to 17th century France, where the life and adventures of the enigmatic cardinal unfold with drama, intrigue, and political turmoil. Through his witty and insightful narration, de Retz offers a candid glimpse into the machinations of the French court, including his own ambitious schemes and conflicts with other powerful figures.

The memoirs are not only a fascinating firsthand account of a turbulent period in history, but also a thought-provoking meditation on power, morality, and the complexities of human nature. De Retz's candid self-reflection and sharp wit make for a compelling read, as he navigates the treacherous waters of court politics and personal rivalries with skill and cunning.

Overall, The Memoirs of Cardinal de Retz is a captivating and engaging read that offers a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in French history. De Retz's colorful personality and keen insights make this memoir a must-read for anyone interested in politics, power, and the human condition.

First Page:

MEMOIRS OF JEAN FRANCOIS PAUL de GONDI, CARDINAL DE RETZ

Written by Himself

Being Historic Court Memoirs of the Great Events during the Minority of Louis XIV. and the Administration of Cardinal Mazarin.

CONTENTS

BOOK I.

BOOK II.

BOOK III.

BOOK IV.

BOOK V.

ILLUSTRATIONS Cardinal de Retz Photogravure from an Old Painting

Turenne Photogravure from an Old Painting

Richelieu Engraving by Lubin

Anne of Austria Original Etching by Mercier

Louis XIII Painting in the Louvre

Conde' Painting in Versailles Gallery

ORIGINAL PREFACE.

Our Author, John Francis Paul de Gondi, Cardinal de Retz, Sovereign of Commercy, Prince of Euville, second Archbishop of Paris, Abbot of Saint Denis in France, was born at Montmirail, in Brie, in October, 1614.

His father was Philippe Emanuel de Gondi, Comte, de Joigni, General of the Galleys of France and Knight of the King's Orders; and his mother was Frances Marguerite, daughter of the Comte de Rochepot, Knight of the King's Orders, and of Marie de Lannoy, sovereign of Commercy and Euville.

Pierre de Gondi, Duc de Retz, was his brother, whose daughter was the Duchesse de Lesdiguieres.

His grandfather was Albert de Gondi, Duc de Retz, Marquis de Belle Isle, a Peer of France, Marshal and General of the Galleys, Colonel of the French Horse, First Gentleman of the Bedchamber, and Great Chamberlain to the Kings Charles IX... Continue reading book >>

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