The Visit Of The Royal Physician

This historical novel explores the scandals of 18th-century Denmark, focusing on the tumultuous reign of King Christian VII and his queen's affair.

Set against the backdrop of the Enlightenment in the 1760s, The Visit Of The Royal Physician delves into the tumultuous court of Denmark. The young King Christian VII, often deemed a half-wit, finds himself caught in a web of political intrigue and personal betrayal. His queen, Caroline Mathilde, is ensnared in an affair with the court physician, Johann Friedrich Struensee, whose progressive ideas threaten the status quo upheld by the cold-hearted Guldberg. The clash between enlightenment ideals and traditional values sets the stage for a gripping narrative filled with scandal and ambition.

As the power dynamics shift within the Danish court, the lives of historical figures such as Voltaire, Catherine the Great, and George III become intertwined with the fate of the kingdom. The Visit Of The Royal Physician masterfully weaves together the personal and political, illustrating how individual desires can ripple through the fabric of a nation. The stakes are high, as Guldberg's relentless pursuit to eradicate Struensee's influence could spell disaster for the queen and the future of Denmark.

Through a rich tapestry of characters and events, Enquist captures the essence of an era marked by enlightenment and upheaval. Readers are drawn into a world where love, ambition, and betrayal collide, making this novel not only a historical account but also a profound exploration of the human condition. The Visit Of The Royal Physician is a compelling narrative that resonates with themes of power, passion, and the complexities of the human heart.