Notes on the French Revolution Lecture

Introduction

• End of the 18th century: France faces internal conflict with its monarchy.
• Maximilien Robespierre becomes a pivotal figure in inspiring the revolution leading to the birth of a republic.
• The revolution is characterized by violence, famously known for the guillotine.

Key Events

1794: Robespierre in the Conciergerie

• Conciergerie prison: described as dank and infested, known as death's antechamber.
• Robespierre, once a powerful leader of the revolution, now awaits execution, a victim of his own creation.

The French Revolution

• A transformative moment questioning the very nature of society and human behavior.
• Shift from feudalism to a new societal order, impacting Europe and the world significantly.
• The revolution dismantled traditional institutions: Catholic Church, monarchy, and nobility.

The Rise of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette

• Louis XVI ascends the throne, unprepared for leadership amidst a growing population and financial crisis.
• Marie Antoinette arrives from Austria, symbolizing a new alliance but quickly becomes unpopular.
• Their marriage struggles lead to suspicions about their ability to produce heirs.

Economic Crisis

• Financial mismanagement leads to a food shortage and social unrest, with bread becoming increasingly scarce.
• Public discontent escalates, leading to riots and violence against perceived oppressors.

Political Movements

• The Estates General convenes for the first time in 175 years, with Robespierre advocating for the Third Estate.
• The Tennis Court Oath symbolizes the deputies' commitment to the people's representation.

The Storming of the Bastille

• July 14, 1789, marks the pivotal event where the people seize the Bastille, a symbol of royal tyranny.
• This act sparks widespread revolutionary fervor across France.

Declaration of the Rights of Man

• Adopted by the National Assembly, emphasizing freedom and equality, effectively diminishing the king's power.
• Robespierre emerges as a key figure advocating for the people's rights.

The Reign of Terror

• Established to eliminate perceived threats to the revolution.
• Robespierre becomes synonymous with the guillotine, leading to mass executions of political opponents.
• The revolutionary fervor turns increasingly radical and violent.

Robespierre’s Downfall

• His increasing paranoia leads to the eventual alienation of allies, culminating in his arrest and execution in July 1794.
• His death marks the end of the Reign of Terror but the revolution continues.

Legacy of the Revolution

• The revolution fundamentally changes France and influences future movements globally.
• Raises ongoing questions about the justification of violence in social change and the legitimacy of overthrowing tyranny.
• Liberty, equality, and fraternity become enduring principles arising from the revolution's ideals.
• The impact of the French Revolution persists in discussions about democracy and social justice today.