Subject
Talleyrand-Périgord, Charles Maurice de, prince de Bénévent, 1754-1838 Books
Best books
Joseph McCabe
Talleyrand: A Biographical Study
"Talleyrand: A Biographical Study" by Joseph McCabe is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the intriguing life of Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord, the enigmatic French diplomat who navigated the tumultuous political landscape of late 18th and early 19th century France. McCabe aims to unravel the complexity of Talleyrand's character and career, which spanned significant events such as the French Revolution and the rise of Napoleon, while revealing the personal and political nuances that defined his legacy. The opening of the study introduces Talleyrand's formative years, revealing how a childhood accident led to his eventual role in the Church instead of a military career. The narrative explores Talleyrand's elite upbringing in an aristocratic family, his struggles with family separation, and the indifferent educational system of the time. As he grows into his teenage years, we see the early development of his character, defined by a sharp intellect and a natural inclination towards diplomacy, as he became increasingly disenchanted with the Church and his predetermined ecclesiastical career. This sets the stage for an examination of how these childhood experiences and observations shaped Talleyrand into one of the most fascinating political figures of his time.
Henry Lytton Bulwer Dalling and Bulwer
Historical Characters: Mackintosh, Talleyrand, Canning, Cobbett, Peel
"Historical Characters: Mackintosh, Talleyrand, Canning, Cobbett, Peel" by Sir Henry Lytton Bulwer is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book offers personal sketches of significant figures from modern history, particularly focusing on the era from the French Revolution of 1789 onwards. Through these portraits, the author seeks to illuminate the interplay between individual characters and the broader historical context in which they operated. The opening of the work sets the framework for exploring the lives and influences of key historical figures, starting with Charles Maurice de Talleyrand, a prominent diplomat and politician. The text discusses not just Talleyrand's background and rise within the ecclesiastical hierarchy but also his strategic thinking and adaptability during the tumultuous times of the French Revolution. It highlights both his early life and career, emphasizing his intelligence, social acuity, and the complexities of his character as he navigated the political landscape, showcasing how personal virtues and flaws shaped his historical role. This initial section provides a compelling introduction to the detailed character studies that are to follow.
M. Colmache
Reminiscences of Prince Talleyrand, Volume 1 (of 2)
"Reminiscences of Prince Talleyrand, Volume 1 (of 2)" by Colmache is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work provides an in-depth look at the life and times of Prince Charles Maurice de Talleyrand, a significant diplomat and statesman in France, detailing his personal experiences, notable contemporaries, and reflections on the political intricacies of his era. Through a collection of anecdotes and remembrances, the book paints a vivid portrait of Talleyrand's influence on French politics during tumultuous times, from his early years to his retirement. The opening of this volume introduces readers to a young diplomat visiting the Hôtel Talleyrand in Paris, setting the stage for an exploration of Talleyrand's character and the atmosphere surrounding him. Through the eyes of this visitor, we are drawn into a moment where Talleyrand enjoys a rare blend of courtly grace and domestic tranquility, relishing the playful antics of his niece alongside a cherished pet. The scene transitions to a personal invitation extended by Talleyrand to visit him in Valençay, a significant location that serves as his refuge and historical backdrop for lively discussions of politics and memories. This introduction hints at the profound insights and stories that will follow in the subsequent chapters, inviting readers to delve into the complexities of one of history's most intriguing figures.
M. Colmache
Reminiscences of Prince Talleyrand, Volume 2 (of 2)
"Reminiscences of Prince Talleyrand, Volume 2 (of 2)" by Colmache is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This volume delves into the life and experiences of the influential French diplomat Prince Talleyrand, focusing on his connections with key figures and events during a turbulent time in French history, including his relationships with important women such as Madame Dubarri and Madame de Staël. It also addresses the misconceptions surrounding Talleyrand's character and his role in society, highlighting the internal conflicts of a man shaped by constant societal change. At the start of the volume, the narrative introduces various characters central to Talleyrand’s life, including Madame Dubarri and the Duc d'Aiguillon, while establishing Talleyrand’s return from America. The dialogue reflects on the misconceptions of Talleyrand’s nature—often viewed through a lens of prejudice and misunderstanding— and how his demeanor influenced public perception. The opening vividly describes a scene involving a humorous yet significant escapade with d'Aiguillon, showcasing Talleyrand's sharp observations of societal dynamics and the complexities of his relationships, hinting at broader themes of identity, reputation, and the impermanence of power.
Henry Lytton Bulwer Dalling and Bulwer
Essai sur Talleyrand
"Essai sur Talleyrand" by Sir Henry Lytton Bulwer is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work delves into the life and influence of Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand, a prominent political figure and diplomat during the French Revolution and subsequent political upheavals. Bulwer's exploration provides insight into Talleyrand's character, political strategies, and interactions with other notable figures of the time. The opening of the book establishes Talleyrand's significant role in the events leading up to and during the French Revolution. It discusses his arrival into the political arena as a cleric and his adeptness at navigating the treacherous political landscape of an era marked by profound change. Bulwer presents Talleyrand as an ambitious figure shaped by the complexities of his background, rising through the ranks of society despite personal and societal challenges. His early actions illustrate his influence over key political decisions, particularly regarding the church and the state, setting the stage for the tumultuous times to follow. This introduction reflects on both Talleyrand's individual characteristics and the broader historical context, inviting the reader to further consider the intricacies of his life and contributions to French politics.
Charles Augustin Sainte-Beuve
Monsieur de Talleyrand
"Monsieur de Talleyrand" by Charles Augustin Sainte-Beuve is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work explores the life and career of Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand, a prominent figure in French history known for his complex political maneuvers and relationships during pivotal moments such as the French Revolution and the rise of Napoleon. The narrative likely delves into Talleyrand’s character, blending a critical perspective on his ambition and duplicity with an appreciation for his political acumen. At the start of the book, the author discusses the impossibility of fully capturing Talleyrand’s essence, noting how he often shaped his public persona through selective narration of his experiences. The text elaborates on Talleyrand's early life, marked by familial neglect and physical disability, and how these factors influenced his ambitions. His success in navigating the political landscape during the Revolution is highlighted, showing him as a key advocate for the sale of church properties and member of the National Assembly, while also foreshadowing the moral ambiguities that define his later actions. Overall, the opening sets the stage for an insightful exploration of Talleyrand's multifaceted character and his significant, yet often controversial, impact on French politics.
Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord
La Confession de Talleyrand, V. 1-5 Mémoires du Prince de Talleyrand
"La Confession de Talleyrand, V. 1-5" by Talleyrand-Périgord is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work reflects the complex life and perspectives of Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand, a prominent French diplomat whose career spanned from the court of Louis XV to Louis-Philippe. The book delves into Talleyrand's political maneuvers, personal reflections, and critiques of the events of his time, painting a vivid picture of the tumultuous changes in France and Europe over several decades. The opening portion of the text reveals Talleyrand's motivations for writing his memoirs, which he describes as a means of self-exploration and possibly a critique of his historical narrative. He reflects on his early life, marked by physical disability and emotional neglect from his family, which shaped his worldview and ambitions. Talleyrand establishes a contemplative tone, considering the past's influence on the present while engaging with the complexities of memory, identity, and the nature of historical record-keeping. Through this introduction, readers are invited to understand not just the man behind significant political events, but also the philosophy that guided his actions throughout a long and eventful life.
Recently surfaced classics