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Robespierre

The Man Who Divides Us the Most
By Marcel Gauchet
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Robespierre by Marcel Gauchet delves into the life and political career of Maximilien Robespierre, a central figure of the French Revolution. The biography examines his rise to power, his ideologies, and the intense controversies surrounding his role in revolutionary politics. Gauchet's work provides a comprehensive look at the complexities of Robespierre's influence and legacy without delving into the series of climactic events that define his historical impact.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you have a fascination with Revolutionary France and enjoy delving into the intricate psychology and political ideology of one of its most enigmatic figures. Marcel Gauchet's exploration of Robespierre offers keen insights that combine rigorous historical research with captivating narrative, perfect for those interested in the dynamics of power, ambition, and political change.

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"First published in French under the title Robespierre: L'homme qui nous divise le plus by Marcel Gauchet Γƒ Editions Gallimard, 2018."

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

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 those who condemn him as the bloodthirsty tyrant who sent people to the guillotine. Marcel Gauchet argues that he was both, embodying the glorious achievement of liberty as well as the excesses that culminated in the Terror.

In much the same way that 1789 and 1793 symbolise the two opposing faces of the French Revolution, Robespierre's contradictions were the contradictions of the revolution itself. Robespierre was its purest incarnation, neither the defender of liberty who fell victim to the corrupting influence of power nor the tyrant who betrayed the principles of the revolution. Gauchet shows how Robespierre's personal transition from opposition to governance was itself an expression of the tragedy inherent in a revolution whose own prophetic ideals were impossible to implement.

This panoramic book tells the story of how the man most associated with the founding of modern French democracy was also the first tyrant of that democracy, and it offers vital lessons for all democracies about the perpetual danger of tyranny.

'A subtle, elegant, and perspicacious explanation of Robespierre's double career, in 1789–91 and 1792–94. It is also a general guide to the history of modern France.' β€” Patrice Higonnet, Times Literary Supplement

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Robespierre by Marcel Gauchet has received favourable reviews for its insightful analysis of Robespierre's role in the French Revolution, exploring the paradox of his democratic ideals and tyrannical actions. Critics have praised Gauchet's focus on the tension between government reflecting the popular will and the obstacles posed by particular interests. The book is noted for being an accessible introduction to Gauchet's broader work, with thoughtful contributions from translators and commentators to enhance understanding.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780691212944

Publisher: Princeton University Press

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 08 March 2022

Country: United States

Imprint: Princeton University Press

Contributors:

  • Translated by Malcolm DeBevoise
  • Translated by Malcolm DeBevoise

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Width: 156.0mm

Height: 235.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 224

Collections

Biography & Memoir Education & Reference European History History & Archaeology History & Military Marcel Gauchet Non-Fiction Philosophy & Psychology Philosophy & Stoicism Political Biographies Politics & Current Affairs

About the Author

Marcel Gauchet is one of France's preeminent public intellectuals. He is professor emeritus at the cole des Hautes tudes en Sciences Sociales in Paris and the author of many books, including Madness and Democracy: The Modern Psychiatric Universe and The Disenchantment of the World: A Political History of Religion (both Princeton).

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