I'm very interested in good and evil and the moral natures of people.

My mother was a politician in my formative years.

[In 16th century European society] Marriage was the triumphal arch through which women, almost without exception, had to pass in order to reach the public eye. And after marriage followed, in theory, the total self-abnegation of the woman.

Normally I make myself swim, do exercises. For zest I like going to the cinema.

As the Dauphine stepped out of her carriage on to the ceremonial carpet that had been laid down, it was the Duc de Choiseul who was given the privilege of the first salute. Presented with the Duc by Prince Starhemberg, Marie Antoinette exclaimed: 'I shall never forget that you are responsible for my happiness!

I have seen all, I have heard all, I have forgotten all. marie antoinette

I can't read historical fiction because I find the real thing so much more interesting.