Question

Describe the political situation in France at the time the novel was written (not the time setting of the novel).

Answer 1

1789-1799 French Revolution involving the replacement of an Absolute Monarch with an attempted democratic government. Napoleon took advantage of the upheaval and crowned himself Emperor. He then set out to conquer Europe, parts of Africa, and parts of Asia. He was defeated by the British and Germans. The monarchy returned, however there were four kings in a 55 year period.

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Answer 2

In the time when the novel was written it would be toward the end of the reign of king Louis XIII and the commencement of the reign of king Louis XIV.

Step-by-step explanation:

Literally that's all I got from reading the author's preface so sorry.