Cavalier: The Story Of A 17th Century Playboy

(Paperback, Main)

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Description

William Cavendish, courageous, cultured and passionate about women, embodies the popular image of a cavalier. Famously defeated at the Battle of Marston Moor in 1644, he went into a long and miserable continental exile before returning to England in triumph on the restoration of King Charles II to the throne in 1660.


Lucy Worsley brings to life a fascinating household of the seventeenth century, painting a picture of conspiracy, sexual intrigue, clandestine marriage and gossip. From Ben Jonson and Van Dyck to a savage, knife-wielding master-cook, Cavalier is a brilliant illumination of the stately home and all its many colourful inhabitants.

Reviews

"Vividly described every detail of Cavendish's universe comes to life fascinating."--"Publishers Weekly""A tour de force of the historical imagination aligned to impeccable scholarship. A marvelous book"--Sir Roy Strong, author of "The Story of Britain" and "Feast"

Author Bio

Chief Curator of Historic Royal Palaces, Lucy Worsley (30 years old) has been researching the story of William Cavendish and his household for over 7 years, and is the author of the English Heritage guide to Bolsover Castle, his principal home and subject of this book.