George IV: Inspiration of the Regency [Hardcover]

Steven Parissien (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0312284020 | ISBN-13: 978-0312284022 | Publication Date: April 15, 2002 | Edition: 1st

In this biography, Steven Parissien aims to present George IV against the cultural background of his age, showing how his behaviour affected the contemporary view of both the monarch and the monarchy, and how his energies and ambitions focused upon the artistic, architectural and social splendour with which many now associate him.

--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Parissien's biography of King George IV is a thoroughly researched analysis of how George came to be "one of the most despised" monarchs of all time. His childhood is described as "spartan" and "unnecessarily harsh." His father, George III, spent little time preparing his son for his future role, and it is likely that this played a part in his later indolence and debauchery. With many deficiencies to choose from, Parissien (Yale Univ.) is most troubled by George IV's inconstancy. Whether with friends, women, or political principals, self-gratification was always his ultimate imperative. His more positive critics tried to portray him as a great patron of art and architecture, and he himself tried to promote the fictional image of himself as military hero, incredibly believing he largely contributed to Napoleon's defeat. But Parissien shows how George's obsession with emulating the French monarchy with all its unpopularity and excesses reveals his inept "political wisdom." Even his own daughter wasn't spared from his utter selfishness. Mercilessly caricatured later in life, George IV left the legacy of a lecherous glutton who "sundered the contract between monarch and nation." This detailed work will most likely appeal to those who regularly read historical biography, though it is accessibly written and contains some juicy tidbits. Recommended for large public libraries. Isabel Coates, Canada Customs & Revenue Agency, ON
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Review

"This genial book succeeds as an exuberant cultural tour of palaces and paintings, rouges and hussies - truly 'Grand Entertainment.'" Simon Sebag Montefiore. -- Financial Times "A well-informed and elegant assessment of George's impact on Regency times, especially its culture." -- Sunday Telegraph, Saul David "Parissien writes with particular engagement and authority." Adam Zamoyski. -- Sunday Times --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 480 pages
• Publisher: St. Martin's Press; 1st edition (April 15, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0312284020
• ISBN-13: 978-0312284022
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.9 x 1.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.9 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 3.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #252,019 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Talent and privilege gone to waste, April 18, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: George IV: Inspiration of the Regency (Hardcover)

George IV has always fascinated me as one of those monarchs who both impress and disgust. He was born George Prince of Wales eldest son of King George III and Queen Charlotte of England. to a world which offered all possible luxury and inherited a country which looked up to its royalty, yet poor george was to die for the most part despised. Mr. Parissien writes a sensitive and readable biography which shows both the causes and results this king's life. Realtionship with his parents were always strained and lacking in complete love or affection. No wonder George was only too eager to enjoy his power as regent when his old father the king was pronounced mad. Geroge's spending habits were phenominal, he would only have the very best no matter what it cost the country. Yet George was respected and loved by those in the arts especially admired by the architects of his time. One only has to look at the enterior of Carlton House or the Brighton Pavillion to realise this man's astetic sense. George's marriage was a disaster and events leading up to his niece Victoria becoming queen was nothing short of a miracle. A true caricature of his own self he gave his name to an era where good taste went hand in hand with infidelity and corruption. A highly readable book with some excellent illustrations.

3 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars A Book About Things, April 30, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: George IV: Inspiration of the Regency (Hardcover)

This book is not for everyone. If you wish to understand, as I did, the politics and economics of the era, you will be disappointed. You will learn more about George's amours and clothing than you ever wanted to know.