Marcel Gauchet

How Robespierre's career and legacy embody the dangerous contradictions of democracy. Maximilien Robespierre (1758–1794) is arguably the most controversial and contradictory figure of the French Revolution, inspiring passionate debate like no other protagonist of those dramatic and violent events. The fervour of those who defend Robespierre the 'Incorruptible,' who championed the rights of the people, is met with revulsion by...

How Robespierre's career and legacy embody the dangerous contradictions of democracy. Maximilien Robespierre (1758–1794) is arguably the most controversial and contradictory figure of the French Revolution, inspiring passionate debate like no other protagonist of those dramatic and violent events. The fervour of those who defend Robespierre the 'Incorruptible,' who championed the rights of the people, is met with revulsion by...