Subject
Frederick II, King of Prussia, 1712-1786 -- Fiction Books
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L. (Luise) Mühlbach
Frederick the Great and His Family: A Historical Novel
"Frederick the Great and His Family: A Historical Novel" by L. Mühlbach is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. The narrative centers around Frederick the Great of Prussia, exploring his relationships within his family, particularly the tensions with his brother, Prince Henry, and the complexities of love, duty, and royal politics in their lives. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to King Frederick, who reflects on his solitude and the loss of joy in Sans-Souci, his once vibrant residence. He grapples with melancholy memories and frustrations over his brother's defiance against marrying for duty rather than love. Meanwhile, Prince Henry, confined to his quarters, contemplates his own romantic inclinations and the struggles to assert his desires against royal expectations. As Louise von Kleist, a significant love interest, navigates her own challenges, the dynamics among these characters set the stage for intrigue, conflict, and the personal sacrifices demanded by their positions. The opening portion establishes the emotional and political stakes that will drive the narrative forward.
L. (Luise) Mühlbach
Old Fritz and the New Era
"Old Fritz and the New Era" by L. Mühlbach is a historical romance written in the mid-19th century. The narrative focuses on King Frederick II of Prussia, known as Old Fritz, highlighting his personal struggles, relationships, and the political landscape of 18th-century Germany. Through the king's interactions with figures such as Wilhelmine Enke, a woman entangled in a secret affair with the crown prince, the story weaves historical events with personal drama to paint a vivid picture of the era's complexities. The opening of "Old Fritz and the New Era" introduces us to King Frederick II, who reflects on his loneliness and the passing of friends, including the philosopher Voltaire. The chapter sets a melancholic tone as he grapples with his responsibilities as a ruler while mourning the loss of connection with his past. As he prepares for potential war with Austria, we meet Wilhelmine Enke, who faces her own turmoil after a harsh encounter with the king regarding her scandalous relationship with the prince. This encounter underscores the societal fears and stigmas she navigates as a mother of the prince's illegitimate children. The chapter establishes the intricate emotional and political stakes that will drive the narrative forward.
L. (Luise) Mühlbach
Frederick the Great and His Court
"Frederick the Great and His Court" by L. Mühlbach is a historical romance written in the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds around the illustrious yet tumultuous court of Frederick William I of Prussia, exploring the complex relationships and political intrigue among the royal family and their courtiers. Central figures include Queen Sophia Dorothea, who yearns for independence from her despotic husband, the king, and their son Frederick, the Prince Royal, who represents a contrasting ideal of sensitivity and artistry. At the start of the novel, the scene is set within the opulent palace, where preparations are underway for a grand ball hosted by Queen Sophia Dorothea, an event she welcomes to escape the oppressive grip of her husband, who is ill but determined to maintain an image of authority. The opening illustrates the strained dynamic in the royal household, portraying the king's bitterness toward his son and the queen's longing for moments of joy and autonomy. The interactions among the queen and her daughters reveal familial bonds as well as the weight of royal expectations, emphasizing the tension between societal obligation and personal desires. Through lively dialogue and vivid descriptions, Mühlbach introduces a vibrant court full of intrigue, setting the stage for the unfolding drama of love, power, and rebellion against the stifling rules of a patriarchal regime.
L. (Luise) Mühlbach
Berlin and Sans-Souci; Or, Frederick the Great and His Friends
"Berlin and Sans-Souci; Or, Frederick the Great and His Friends" by L. Mühlbach is a historical romance likely written in the late 19th century. The narrative explores the life and relationships surrounding Frederick the Great, the King of Prussia, intertwining his story with the intrigues and personal dilemmas of those in his court, including courtiers, family members, and a diverse cast of characters from artists to secretaries. The opening portion of the book introduces us to the serene gardens of Charlottenburg on a bright May morning, where we meet Joseph and Fredersdorf, a private secretary to the king, who engage in a conversation about mystical pursuits and the desire to summon the devil to reveal the secret of creating gold. As the dialogue unfolds, we also glimpse into the ambitions and struggles of these characters against the backdrop of courtly life in Berlin. The tone is imbued with humor, ambition, and hints of deeper conflicts, setting the stage for a tale that weaves together elements of personal aspiration and the political machinations of the period.
Adolf Paul
Die Tänzerin Barberina: Roman aus der Zeit Friedrich des Grossen
"Die Tänzerin Barberina: Roman aus der Zeit Friedrich des Grossen" by Adolf Paul is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the 18th century during the reign of Frederick the Great and follows the journey of a young dancer named Barberina. The narrative explores themes of ambition, artistic expression, and the tension between personal desire and social expectations. The opening of the novel introduces Rinaldo Fossano, a renowned dancer and choreographer grappling with dissatisfaction as he prepares for a performance in Venice. He yearns for a dancer who embodies the ethereal quality of "Psyche" but finds no one among his troupe who meets his ideal. His frustration leads him to a chance encounter with a girl, Barberina, who captivates him with her natural grace, suggesting a profound connection to the elusive quality he seeks. As the scene unfolds, Fossano becomes increasingly determined to help Barberina realize her potential, setting the stage for a complex relationship that intertwines their artistic fates. The opening sets a tone of artistic passion and the pursuit of beauty amid the struggles of life as a performer.
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