The Death of Louis XIV 2017
Directed by
Albert Serra
Made by
Cinema Guild, The
Plot Summary
After returning from a hunting expedition on August 9, 1715, Louis XIV finds himself bedridden, grappling with declining cardiovascular health as an embolism in his leg becomes gangrenous. This unfortunate turn of events leads to an increasingly fragile state, rendering him incapable of fulfilling his royal responsibilities. Though there is a temporary rally, his condition deteriorates swiftly, culminating in a fever fueled by the infection.
As whispers of the King’s deteriorating health begin to circulate within the illustrious Court of Versailles, his chief physician forbids any further travels. In a desperate attempt to control the narrative, the Royal Family endeavors to censor the flow of information regarding Louis XIV’s decline. Subsequently, four eminent physicians from the University of Paris are summoned to assess the situation. However, the grave diagnosis of gangrene is only confirmed when Georges Mareschal, his chief doctor, makes an incision in the ailing monarch’s infected leg and examines the wound.
Despite the stark advice from Mareschal regarding amputation, the resolute King refuses to entertain such thoughts, instead preparing himself for his impending demise. He seeks solace in spiritual rites, receiving the sacraments of confession and the final unction. In a display of statesmanship, he carefully organizes a regency for his young great-grandson, the future Louis XV, enlisting the help of his mistress Madame Maintenon and Louis Auguste, Duke of Maine, one of his older illegitimate offspring, who is appointed regent until the five-year-old Louis XV reaches adulthood. Furthermore, Francois de Neufville, duc de Villeroy is designated as Louis XV’s legal guardian until he comes of age.
In a poignant gesture, the ailing monarch imparts wisdom on governance to his successor, a testament to his enduring commitment to the throne. As several quacks attempt to remedy his ailment, the King’s condition continues to decline further, with gangrene overtaking his frail body. On August 30, he slips into a coma, and on September 1, 1715, at precisely 8:15 AM, he passes away.
Following his death, a post-mortem examination reveals his wishes to separate his heart and intestines from the rest of his body, a poignant reflection of his thoughts on mortality. On September 9, 1715, after lying in state for public mourning, his body is respectfully interred within the Basilica of Saint-Denis, marking the end of an era.
Timeline
Return from Hunting Expedition
On August 9, 1715, Louis XIV returns from a hunting expedition, which marks the beginning of his declining health. The adventures of the day are overshadowed by the onset of his medical issues, signifying a precarious turn in his royal journey.
Declining Health
After returning from the hunt, Louis XIV finds himself bedridden due to a severe embolism in his leg, which becomes gangrenous. This medical crisis leads to an inability to fulfill his royal duties, plunging the kingdom into uncertainty.
Whispers of Illness
As rumors about the King's health begin to circulate in Versailles, the royal family feels the pressure of public scrutiny. In an effort to maintain their reputation, they attempt to censor information regarding Louis XIV's declining state.
Summoning Physicians
Four esteemed physicians from the University of Paris are summoned to assess the deteriorating condition of the King. This decision highlights the gravity of the situation as the royal family seeks expert opinions on Louis XIV's health.
Diagnosis of Gangrene
The chief physician, Georges Mareschal, conducts an incision on the King's infected leg, confirming the diagnosis of gangrene. This moment serves as a harsh reality for the royal family, bringing forth the urgency of the King’s condition.
Refusal of Amputation
Despite Mareschal's stark advice to consider amputation, Louis XIV resolutely declines to entertain the notion. Instead, he prepares for his imminent death, showcasing his acceptance of fate amid the turmoil.
Spiritual Preparation
In the face of his mortality, the King seeks solace through spiritual rites, embracing the sacraments of confession and final unction. This moment underscores his deep-rooted faith and emotional struggle in coming to terms with his impending demise.
Organizing the Regency
Demonstrating his commitment to the throne, Louis XIV meticulously organizes a regency for his great-grandson, Louis XV. He enlists key figures, including his mistress, Madame Maintenon, and Louis Auguste, Duke of Maine, to ensure a stable transition.
Imparting Wisdom
In a poignant moment, the King shares his wisdom regarding governance with his successor, reflecting his dedication to the monarchy. This symbolic gesture highlights his concern for the future of France even as he faces his own end.
Decline and Coma
As Louis XIV’s health deteriorates further, quacks attempt various remedies to no avail. His suffering culminates in a coma on August 30, illustrating the deepening tragedy of his condition.
Death of the King
On September 1, 1715, at precisely 8:15 AM, Louis XIV passes away, marking the end of a significant era. His death brings a profound sense of loss to both the monarchy and the people of France.
Post-Mortem Wishes
A post-mortem examination reveals Louis XIV's final wishes regarding the separation of his heart and intestines from the rest of his body. This act reflects his contemplation of mortality and his desire for a specific burial arrangement.
Public Mourning
After lying in state for public mourning, Louis XIV's legacy is honored by his kingdom. The public outpouring of grief illustrates the King's significant impact on France over his long reign.
Interment at Basilica of Saint-Denis
On September 9, 1715, Louis XIV is respectfully interred within the Basilica of Saint-Denis. This final resting place symbolizes the end of his multifaceted reign and the transition to a new era under Louis XV.
Characters
Louis XIV
Louis XIV, known as the Sun King, is depicted as a once-mighty monarch whose resolve and dignity remain evident as he faces death. His refusal to accept amputation showcases his profound connection to royal identity and the weight of expectation upon him, leading to a poignant struggle between duty and deterioration.
Georges Mareschal
Georges Mareschal, as the chief physician, embodies the conflict between the realities of medicine and the will of his king. His expert guidance serves as both a medical authority and a moral compass, emphasizing the tension between loyalty to the crown and the pragmatic approach to the king's failing health.
Madame Maintenon
Madame Maintenon plays a critical role as the king's mistress and confidante, offering emotional support during his final days. Her presence illustrates the personal ramifications of royal life, as she balances her own sentiments with her loyalty to Louis XIV and the future of the monarchy.
Setting
Time period
1715
The movie is set during the early 18th century, a pivotal period in French history marked by the decline of absolute monarchy. Louis XIV's reign, known for its grandiosity and cultural flourishing, faces a critical transition as the nation prepares for the ascension of a youthful Louis XV after the king's death.
Location
Versailles, Basilica of Saint-Denis
Versailles, once the royal residence of Louis XIV, is renowned for its opulent architecture and expansive gardens, symbolizing the absolute monarchy of the Ancien Régime. The Basilica of Saint-Denis is a significant burial site for French monarchs, serving as a testament to the historical lineage of France and the transition of power.
Themes
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Monarchy
The theme of monarchy is central to the film, exploring the burdens of royal duty through Louis XIV's declining health. His attempts to secure the future of the throne reflect the significance placed on lineage and governance, revealing the vulnerabilities inherent in absolute power.
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Mortality
Mortality resonates profoundly throughout the film as Louis XIV confronts his impending death. His reflections on life and governance during his last days shed light on the inevitability of death, prompting a contemplation of legacy and how one's life choices are ultimately reconciled with fate.
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