The Last King of Poland

Stanislaw Poniatowski was a dashing figure in the finest 18th century tradition. He was a perfect illustration of the contradictions of the European Enlightenment: he worshipped reason but was led by the heart; professed Catholicism but believed in providence. He spent fortunes on cultural projects, and transformed the mood and outlook of his country, ushering in an era of reform and independence. Poland's neighbours, however, viewed this beacon of liberty in the midst with alarm, and as they invaded and partitioned it, Stanislaw was obliged to watch the destruction of his life's work, and ultimately forced to abdicate, a broken man, deceived and disillusioned...