In 1770, 14-year-old Archduchess Maria Antonia of Austria arrived in France to marry Louis XVI. As Marie Antoinette, she became the ultimate diva of her time; rebelling against the the rigid protocols of court and crafting a unique visual identity; wearing men's clothing and sporting excessive elevated hair. How then did her adoring public turn on her and condemn her, leading to her execution?

Professor Suzannah Lipscomb is joined by Professor Caroline Weber to discuss the royal influencer who dressed like a royal mistress, and whose lavish attire cost her her life.

Presented by Professor Suzannah Lipscomb. The researcher is Alice Smith, audio editor is Amy Haddow and the producer is Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.

Theme music from All3Media. Other music courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.

Not Just the Tudors is a History Hit podcast.

More episodes on France in the Early Modern period:

Louis XIV and his Mistresses >

The House of Guise: Europe’s Most Murderous Dynasty >

Francois I, King of France >

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Series 8: Marie Antoinette