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The Man in the Iron Mask Allusions & Cultural References

When authors refer to other great works, people, and events, it’s usually not accidental. Put on your super-sleuth hat and figure out why.

Historical References

Note: The book is a work of historical fiction, so almost every character, place, and event is a reference to actual characters, places, and events. The three glaring exceptions to this rule are the existences of Athos, Porthos, and Aramis. (Yes, D'Artagnan really did exist.) We list a few of the most glaring historical references below.

  • King Louis XIV
  • Maria Theresa
  • Anne of Austria
  • Maria Theresa
  • Nicolas Fouquet
  • Colbert
  • Molière
  • La Fontaine
  • Le Brun
  • Madame de Chevreuse