Louis XIV

Sun King of France

Early Modern influential 53 sayings

Sayings by Louis XIV

I have always been a friend of the arts.

c. 1670s — Referring to his patronage of culture and the arts.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I could sooner reconcile all Europe than two women.

1680s — Remark about court intrigues involving his mistresses
Strange & Unusual Confirmed

Every time I appoint someone to a vacant position, I make a hundred unhappy and one ungrateful.

1670s — On the difficulties of governance
Strange & Unusual Confirmed

Has God forgotten all I have done for Him?

1715 — Allegedly said on his deathbed
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I am the state.

1650s — Attributed, though possibly apocryphal
Strange & Unusual Confirmed

It is legal because I wish it.

1680s — Asserting absolute authority
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

One king, one law, one faith.

1685 — Policy of religious uniformity
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The more I give, the more is desired of me.

1690s — On courtiers' demands
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I shall see you again when it pleases God. Do not tire yourself with weeping.

1707 — To his dying mistress, Madame de Montespan
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

Paris is worth a mass.

1680s — Attributed, echoing Henry IV
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I'm extremely glad for you, Messire. Great tidings! Now you can read Cervantes in the original.

Approx. 17th Century — To a courtier who learned Spanish, believing the King wanted to appoint him to Spain, but Louis mere…
Humorous Unverifiable

Why do you weep? Did you imagine that I was immortal?

1715 — His deathbed, to his weeping courtiers.
Humorous Unverifiable

I see no point in reading.

Approx. 17th-18th Century — A casual remark reflecting his priorities or perhaps a misunderstanding of his actual views on readi…
Humorous Unverifiable