People tend to be "socialized" to react about somebody when that person killed millions. Whether or not he killed millions had nothing to do with the question, but of course if you mention Hitler, that thought will come to people's head. If the quetion was "Do you agree that Hitler was a fancy dresser?" people would still say something such as "yes, I love riding pants, but he was evil," or something like that.
Well maybe in an overall historic sense. But he did fight off rebellion from his brother, was betrayed by the keeper of the seal. etc. His brother actually seems so inept that he's funny. His reign also had the antics of the Duchesse de Chevreuse flourishing. She was a female spy-type, and managed to do some amazing things considering the position of women at that time. Louis XIII also rode at the head of his army during battles with the protestants. It wasn't that he did so much in a historical sense, but his personal style wasn't as dandy as Louis XIV. It was just a little more manly reign in that sense. Anyway. Louis XIII did have an infatuation with Marie de Hautefuort who I think is one of the most amazing women of that era. She turned down the King, did all sorts of charitable work, and didn't get married until much later in life(I forget what age). IT may have even been at 40 or later. I wish I could remember right now. That would be an accomplishment even today, but given the role and expectations placed on women back then, it's mind boggling. IMO Marie de Hautefort blows Louise de la Valiere out of the water. I guess the thing about Louis XIII I like, are the examples I gave above about other people, that were allowed, or did whether allowed to or not, exist under his reign. Though to go back one monarch further Henri IV actually accomplished much, was incredibly adventerous, and amazing. Perhaps he tops all French Monarchs on my list.
I was intentionally being dismissive about Louis III, soI do know what you are talking about. I strongly agree with your thoughts on Henry. He was a great king and, if I remember correctly, really loved during his reign.
