Louis XIV

Versailles is the visible image of my power.

The nobility must be kept in check, or they will devour the monarchy.

Peace is the true glory of a king.

My conduct must be blameless, or the foundation of my power will be shaken.

The secret of great authority is to make others believe that you possess it.

I govern by main force.

The more you know, the more you understand the value of time.

A prince should never be without a minister who is wiser than himself.

The crown is not a hat that falls on the head by chance.

I have often seen that we are more fortunate to have a rose and a mediocre opinion of it than to have a vine without the rose.

The state is mine.

To reign is to serve the people.

Ambition is the spur of great souls.

The best way to rule is to avoid ruling too much.

My will is the law.

The sun never sets on my empire.

I desire only what is good for my people.

The throne is a bed of thorns.

War is the sport of kings.

I am the Sun King, and my light shines on France.