The Felon King: Ferdinand VII in British Print Culture (1814–1833)

Abstract

This article examines the public image of King Ferdinand VII of Spain in Britain during his reign (1814–1833) by exploring his portrayal in British newspapers, caricatures, non-fiction books and literary texts, including the works published in English by Spanish liberals exiled in Britain. On the whole, the king’s efforts to restore absolutism, the re-establishment of the Inquisition, and his changeable and hypocritical behaviour were severely criticized. He was depicted as a tyrant by Tories, Whigs and Radicals alike, although there were some differences in the tone and focus of their criticism. Whereas some authors ridiculed his conduct, others tried to exculpate him by blaming his advisors, and others ruthlessly condemned his cruelty and ingratitude towards his people. None the less, all of them depicted him as an inept ruler and provided a very negative image of his reign.