Ludwig II of Bavaria: The Swan King

McIntosh does an excellent job of providing an easily readable beginning spot to anyone interested in the life of the "Swan King." The book provides insight into his family life, motives, and gives personal details that help one understand his actions and story a little bit better. The book is not so introductory, however, that readers with knowledge about his life will find it boring or tedious. The author did an excellent job with his investigation, and even provides information about monetary values. The bibliography is comprehensive and the book, overall, is well researched.

As the other reviewers have said, the print is regrettably small... which is a shame, because this is a very detailed, well-researched biography of a truly fascinating man. I would heartily recommend this as a starting place for research on Ludwig. It evenly covers both his personal and private life with much detail-- perhaps a bit too much for a true beginner. Still, the writing style is easy to read, and each chapter breaks down a particular time or incident in Ludwig's life very well and covers it thoroughly. Again, I would definitely recommend this for the casual reader interested in Ludwig. While it is very detailed, it is also written in a very readable style, without coming off like a textbook. The author views Ludwig sympathetically, but relatively objectively and with a good knowledge of the time period. He perhaps glosses over the question of Ludwig's sexuality, but also explains why he does so. All in all, a very-well reasearched and well-written book that is very readable on an intriguing man.

The book is a result of extensive research so it's packed with information and, unlike many histories, this one reads like a novel. I not only learned what Ludwig contributed to Bavaria, but felt I knew him as a person.It's a well-written book on a fascinating topic. I plan to go to Munich Germany next year to see Ludwig's castles firsthand. My only complaint about this is with the publisher. The print is so small, older people, over 55, may have a problem reading it.

In March of this year (2000), I was in Bavaria and visited the castles of Ludwig II. Upon my return I purchased this book to learn more about the King. I found this book fascinating. I only wish I had read it before my trip to his castles so I could have appreciated my visit more.

This book, which was wonderfully researched, provides a detailed information about this magnificent king. It is preferred that persons who read it know a little about the Swan King, but it is not necessary. He discusses Ludwig's intimate life, including controversial topics. One might enjoy this book for many reasons, especially if you have an interest of how court life was around the late 1800's, and how Ludwig's mind worked, his thoughts, feelings, etc. A definate buy!