The Sun King or the Dancing King?

King Louis XIV is probably one of the most well-known European kings, especially to those who have studied practically anything in European history. He is often referred to as "The Sun King". What many do not know is that he was given that name because he played Apollo, the Greek god of the sun, in the ballet Ballet de Huit (Ballet of Night). He admired dance since the age of 13, actively practicing the art, and even made his entire court learn to dance. The art of dance was taken quit seriously by the king and he held ballets as often as he could.

In 1661 he established the ballet academy, Acadamie Royal de Dance, located at the Louvre. Eight years later the academy became the Acadmie Royal de Musique, today known as the Paris Opera. Despite the change in name ballet was just as popular there. Pierre Beauchamp  was Louis' appointed "dance master" and composed/choreographed all of the court ballets. This man is responsible for starting the five basic ballet positions of the feet in turn-out (rotation of the legs), which is practiced by every dancer today. 

Sadly, at the age of 31 Louis had to retire from dancing because he was getting a little too heavy for such activities. At this time the rise of professional dancers emerged, such as the first female dancing star, Mlle La Fontaine. 

At this time in the 17th century, ballet would not have progressed like it did if it wasn't for those who were royalty. Luckily they had high interest in the arts and were able to keep it alive. Much of the innovations in dance after Louis would not have happened if it weren't for him.

I can't help but had a soft spot for this king. At such a young age he had to rule an entire country, during a time of religious tension for that matter. Could you image the responsibility? Yet he still upheld ballet to be supreme. So, thank you Sun King for keeping one of my deepest passions alive despite everything in your chaotic life, even when you became fat.