The underlying theme of Ashputtel that I broke down into heaven and hell can really be identified through the reign of Louis XIV in France.
Opulence. Grandeur. Over-indulgence.
Louis pushed for extravagance; during his reign the Palace of Versailles was built.
'...Versailles became a dazzling, awe-inspiring setting for state affairs and the reception of foreign dignitaries. At Versailles, the King alone assumed the attention, which was not shared with the Capital or People. Several reasons have been suggested for the creation of the extravagant and stately palace, as well as the relocation of the monarchy's seat. For example, Saint-Simon speculated that Louis viewed Versailles as an isolated power center where treasonous cabals could be more readily discovered and foiled.'
This quote alone I explains heaven and hell. The ideal place that Louis created; not simply just for grandeur, but to uncover treason and plots against him! Louis was very much a paranoid man constantly on the look out for those 'out to get him'.
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In the same way I seem to be drawn to Louis' lifestyle to influence my ideas for Ashputtel. I'm wanting to look more at French paintings of this period, to get an idea of society in France during that time but also to look at the Baroque period, something that will help give me more of an understanding of the period of grandeur.
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