Ludwig the Second, King of Bavaria by Clara Tschudi

“Ludwig the Second, King of Bavaria” provides an insightful look into the life of Ludwig II, also known as the “Fairy Tale King” or the “Mad King”. Tschudi delves into the early years of Ludwig’s life, his complex personality, and the pressures he faced as a monarch. The biography reveals his deep love for art, music, and culture, particularly his admiration for Richard Wagner, whose operas had a profound influence on the king’s life and projects.

One of the main focuses of the book is Ludwig’s passion for architecture and his extraordinary construction projects, including the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, which served as the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Tschudi also explores Ludwig’s financial difficulties, his controversial political decisions, and the isolation he experienced in his later years, culminating in his mysterious death in 1886.