Book summary: The Accursed Kings
February 8, 2022 by in Book summary
The Accursed Kings is a historical saga consisting of 7 tomes based on reliable sources. Maurice Druon traces the troubled period from the beginning of the 14th century to the end of the Capetian dynasty. This dynasty had exercised power in the kingdom since the 10th century. France will then enter a long and bloody power struggle: the Hundred Years War.
About the book
- Title: Accursed Kings
- Publication Date: 1955
- Author: Maurice Druon
- Genre: Historical novel
- Difficulty for French learners: 3/5
The Iron King: A summary
In the first volume 1, the Iron King (Le Roi de fer), you will discover the origin of this disappearance: a curse launched by the grandmaster of the order of the Templars, Jacques de Molay, who was burned alive in 1314. King Philippe le Bel, reputed to be icy and majestic, is targeted by these last words. He rules France with an iron fist.
Thanks to this novel you will dive into life in the 14th century: beliefs, mores, and medical practices. Different stories are to follow: the quarrels of succession within the Kingdom, the fierce struggle for the possession of the county of Artois between the formidable Mahaut of Burgundy and her nephew Robert d’Artois or the beginnings of a love story between a young and attractive Lombard banker, Guccio, and Marie, a girl of minor nobility.
favorite quote from the book
« Il a beau être le plus bel homme du monde, il ne sait que regarder les gens sans rien dire. Ce n’est ni un homme ni une bête, c’est une statue. »
Druon, Maurice. Les rois maudits – Tome 1
To read and reread without getting bored!
Access the full summary by subscribing to the French book club.
