Souvenirs d'un sexagénaire, Tome II

by A.-V. (Antoine-Vincent) Arnault

"Souvenirs d'un sexagénaire, Tome II" by A.-V. Arnault is a memoir written in the early 19th century. The work captures the tumultuous period of the French Revolution through the eyes of the author, who reflects on the significant events and societal changes occurring in France between 1793 and 1794, including the trial and execution of Louis XVI. As he narrates his experiences, Arnault paints a vivid picture of the shifting political landscape, societal norms, and cultural life surrounding him. The opening of this memoir introduces readers to Arnault's perspective as he returns to Paris, startled by the profound transformations that have taken place. He observes the drastic departure from old social mores, exemplified by the change in titles from "Monsieur" and "Madame" to "Citoyen" and "Citoyenne" during the revolutionary fervor. Arnault delves into the public sentiment surrounding the trial of Louis XVI, highlighting a mixture of fear, disbelief, and the varying opinions among Parisians regarding the monarchy's fate. The narrative progresses to account for his own reflections on artistic endeavors, interactions with contemporary literary figures, and the looming dread of political repression, setting the stage for a profound exploration of artistic expression amidst chaos.