Words cannot describe how I felt when I entered Versailles. The golden gates, the splendid gardens that surrounded the large palace all seemed too overwhelming. It took a while for it to sink in that I was actually standing in what used to be Marie Antoinette’s home. The palace truly represented what Louis XIV was trying to aim for: authority and power. The extravagance of the golden gates and the breathtaking hall of mirrors was just the décor that distinguish the French monarchy from the rest of the world. The history of Versailles is interesting and amusing. The fact that it was first used as a hunting lodge for King Louis XIII seems comical. I cannot picture Versailles as an institution for a hunting lodge, not with the extravagant decorations it upholds. It’s no wonder the French people began a revolution; the monarchy and aristocracy were living life to the fullest. I enjoyed reading about Louis XIV. This gentleman wanted to establish himself as a superior god that controlled the nation. His narcissistic actions were surely reflected through the many statues and paintings of Greek and Roman gods that adorned the palace. The day I visited the gardens, I did noticed the many classical pieces that were display under the sun. It revealed to me that Louis XIV was a man who was hungry for power. His willingness and dedication to keep his gardens in great conditions conveys the message that his goal was to outdo nature. It seems as if control became an obsession. Although Louis XIV was an egomaniac, I still appreciate what he created. Many will argue that his actions were tyrant and governing but I respect this man’s willingness to change. Unfortunately, Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette had to pay the consequences. My visit to Versailles helped me understand why there was a revolution. The distinctions of classes were so boldly divided that even I would have marched with the French to protest. But for now all I can do is explore this grand palace and pretend that I am royalty; for it is all I can afford to do now.  |
