Queen Hortense

"Q ueen Hortense: A Life Picture of the Napoleonic Era" by L.Mühlbach is a historical account written in the late 19th century that explores the life of Hortense Beauharnais, the daughter of Empress Josephine and the stepdaughter of Napoleon Bonaparte. The narrative unfolds during a tumultuous period marked by revolution and change, focusing on Hortense's personal journey through sorrow, triumph, and artistic expression against the backdrop of a shifting political landscape. The opening of the book introduces readers to Hortense as a poignant figure amid the Napoleonic era, recounting her childhood marred by family misfortune and the upheaval of the French Revolution. We learn of Hortense's early experiences, including her mother Josephine's trials, her father's execution, and the hardships faced by the dethroned Bonaparte family. Mühlbach paints a vivid portrait of Hortense's resilience and grace, showcasing her talent in poetry and music, including the creation of famous pieces like "Va t'en, Guerrier." The opening chapters set the stage for a narrative that promises to delve deeper into Hortense's life as she navigates love, loss, and her identity as a Bonaparte while enduring the vicissitudes of her age.F or the second time, the Bourbons had entered Paris under the protection of the allies, and Louis XVIII. was once more King of France. But this time he did not return with his former mild and conciliatory disposition. He came to punish and to reward; he came unaccompanied by mercy. The old generals and marshals of the empire, who had not been able to resist their chieftain's call, were now banished, degraded, or executed. Ney and Labédoyère paid for their fidelity to the emperor with their blood; and all who were in any way connected with the Bonapartes were relentlessly pursued. The calumnies that had been circulated in 1814 against the Duchess of St. Leu were now to bear bitter fruit. These were the dragon's teeth from which the armed warriors had sprung, who now levelled their swords at the breast of a defenceless woman. King Louis had returned to the throne of his fathers, but he had not forgotten that he had been told on his flight: "The Duchess of St. Leu is to blame for all! Her intrigues have brought Napoleon back!" Now that he was again king, he thought of it, and determined to punish her. He requested it of