A Queen on Trial: The Affair of Queen Caroline

The so-called 'trial' of Queen Caroline, wife of George IV, in 1820 was one of the most sensational events of the nineteenth century. Not only was a Queen Consort of Great Britain publicly accused of adultery over a period of years, and in particularly sordid circumstances, but the full details of the accusations were paraded before a crowded House of Lords and the general public, through the newspapers and in scurrilous verses and cartoons. The 'queen's affair' produced riots and demonstrations in London and the provinces, almost stimulated a mutiny in the army, and was taken up with enthusiasm by radicals and revolutionaries anxious to discredit the monarchy and the political system. Excerpts from contemporary diaries, letters and newspapers unfold the story as it was seen by a variety of observers in court, in society and parliament, in the City of London and in the nation at large. Chronicling the breakdown of George and Caroline's marriage, and his futile attempt to divorce her and deprive her of her royal rights and status, A Queen on Trial throws up fascinating parallels with Diana and Charles' acrimonious separation and comes as a timely reminder of the cyclical, repetitive nature of history.

© 2016 The History Press (E-bog): 9780750981668

Udgivelsesdato

E-bog: 21. oktober 2016