Madame Roland, Makers of History

by John S. C. (John Stevens Cabot) Abbott

"Madame Roland, Makers of History" by John S. C. Abbott is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the life of Madame Roland, a significant figure during the French Revolution, exploring her formative years, intellectual development, and her role amidst the tumultuous events of her time. It reflects on her ambitions, the challenges she faced, and the profound influence she had as a woman engaged in political and social reform. The opening of the narrative introduces us to Jane Maria Phlippon, later known as Madame Roland, by tracing her childhood and the contrasting influences of her parents. Her father, Gratien Phlippon, embodies the restless spirit of the working class dissatisfied with societal inequalities, while her mother epitomizes a more submissive, pious nature. As Jane grows up, her thirst for knowledge and intellectual pursuits burgeons, leading her to a convent. The chapter outlines her formative experiences, including her early love for literature and her profound reflections on the disparities present in society. This early life foreshadows her later achievements and her pivotal role in one of history's most significant revolutions.