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Charles XII, King of Sweden, 1682-1718 Books
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Voltaire
Voltaire's history of Charles XII, king of Sweden
"Voltaire's History of Charles XII, King of Sweden" by Voltaire is a historical account written in the early 18th century. This work narrates the life and reign of Charles XII, emphasizing his extraordinary character and the events that marked his rule, including his confrontations with Denmark, Poland, and Russia. Charles XII is depicted as a heroic figure, illustrating both the triumphs and challenges he faced as a young monarch. The opening of the text provides a comprehensive overview of the context in which Charles XII ascended to the throne, detailing his upbringing and the political landscape of Sweden at that time. It reveals the young king’s character, noting his martial inclinations and strong will, especially in the face of impending threats from neighboring countries. The introductory sections highlight the alliances formed against Sweden and set the stage for Charles' dramatic rise to power and military engagements, establishing a narrative that intertwines personal valor with the broader struggles of the Swedish state.
Voltaire
Kaarle XII:n historia
"Kaarle XII:n historia" by Voltaire is a book published in 1731 about Swedish King Charles XII and the Great Northern War. Voltaire presents a positive portrait of the Swedish monarch, portraying him as a counterweight to Peter the Great's brutality and unjust warfare. Through his literary style emphasizing narrative tension and elegant prose, Voltaire created what became the first major work on Charles XII's life—an adventure story that shaped Swedish historical tradition, introducing anecdotes and details that persist in historiography to this day.
Olaf Johan Hultgren
Om mordet på Karl XII: Historisk och juridisk undersökning
"Om mordet på Karl XII: Historisk och juridisk undersökning" by Olaf Johan Hultgren is a historical and legal examination written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the circumstances surrounding the death of Charles XII of Sweden, a king known for his military exploits and controversial legacy. The work aims to offer insights into whether his death was the result of an assassination or a combat-related incident. In this comprehensive investigation, Hultgren reviews various eyewitness accounts, historical records, and contemporary theories to piece together the events that led to the king's demise during the siege of Fredriksten Fortress in 1718. The author presents testimonies from military officers and explores the implications of potential conspiracy theories, including allegations against an officer named Sicre, and examines medical examinations of the royal remains. Ultimately, Hultgren advocates for a critical reevaluation of existing narratives around Karl XII's death, arguing that there is substantial evidence to suggest that he may have been murdered rather than killed in action.
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