The Death of Louis XIV

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.

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 18:26