Citizens: A Chronicle of the French Revolution

Simon Schama

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brutality and violence of the french revolution

revisionist view of the french revolution

transformation from monarchy to republic

vivid storytelling and insightful analysis

social upheaval during the revolution

chronological structure of historical events

characters' motivations and actions

immersive account of the revolution

meticulous research in historical narratives

societal changes in late 18th century france

political transformations of the era

dense yet engaging prose style

overwhelming number of characters

upheaval in values leading to the revolution

Citizens: A Chronicle of the French Revolution by Simon Schama is a detailed and engaging history of the French Revolution, exploring the factors that led to this tumultuous period. Schama's writing style captivates readers with vivid storytelling and insightful analysis, delving into the lives of both revolutionary leaders and ordinary citizens. The book covers the evolution of France from a monarchy to a republic, highlighting the social upheaval and political transformations that occurred during this time.

Schama's narrative provides a comprehensive overview of the French Revolution, focusing on the brutality and violence that characterized the era. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, he offers a nuanced portrayal of the key events and figures, shedding light on the complexities of this pivotal moment in history. Readers are immersed in a vivid account of the revolution, from the upheaval in values to the reign of terror, providing a comprehensive understanding of the societal changes and political upheavals that defined this period.

Writing/Prose:

Schama utilizes a witty and engaging prose style that, while dense, brings historical figures and events to life through quotes and illustrations.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative presents a revisionist view of the French Revolution, highlighting the change leading up to it and the inherent violence, while following a chronological structure.

Setting:

The setting encompasses France during the late 18th century, focusing on the transformative political and social climates leading to the Revolution.

Pacing:

The pacing tends to be slow initially, with a buildup towards the Revolution, but some sections may feel hurried or overwhelming due to the number of characters.

In the brilliant spring of 1778, Talleyrand went to pay his respects to Voltaire. Even in a society where the worldliness of the clergy was notorious, this was a little unseemly. The ink had hardly dr...

Genres:

history

nonfiction

Topics:

chronological narrative

Notes:

Citizens by Simon Schama is 875 pages long and has a narrative style.

Schama takes a revisionist approach and uses a 19th-century writing style.

The book is organized chronologically rather than thematically.

It takes 368 pages to reach the storming of the Bastille.

Schama emphasizes the importance of individual actions in the Revolution.

He argues that violence was not just a byproduct but intrinsic to the Revolution.

The book discusses the origins of the revolutionary anthem 'La Marseillaise.'

Schama believes the prerevolutionary period was one of significant change brought by various influences.

He claims the bourgeoisie were the principal victims of the Revolution, contrary to Marxist beliefs.

The narrative highlights the complex relationships between patriotism and liberty during the Revolution.

Schama includes many quotes from contemporary sources to illustrate thoughts and events.

The author expresses doubt about the positive impact of the Revolution on the peasants and urban poor.

The book's focus on a wide range of contemporary sources contributes to its rich detail.

It critiques the notion that the Revolution was a necessary outcome of historical progress and instead presents it as contingent on specific events.

Schama's writing style is noted for its literary quality and humor.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include graphic descriptions of violence, discussions of the Terror, and the impact of class struggles and societal upheaval.

From The Publisher:

In this New York Times bestseller, award-winning author Simon Schama presents an ebullient country, vital and inventive, infatuated with novelty and technology-a strikingly fresh view of Louis XVI's France. One of the great landmarks of modern history publishing, Citizens: A Chronicle of the French Revolution is the most authoritative social, cultural, and narrative history of the French Revolution ever produced.

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About the Author:

Simon Schama is University Professor of Art History and History at Columbia University and the prize-winning author of seventeen books, including The Embarrassment of Riches, Citizens, Landscape and Memory, Rembrandt's Eyes, the History of Britain trilogy and The Story of the Jews. He is a contributing editor of the Financial Times and his award-winning television work as writer and presenter for the BBC includes the fifteen-part A History of Britain and the eight-part, Emmy-winning Power of Art.

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