Subject
France -- History -- Second Republic, 1848-1852 Books
Best books
Victor Hugo
Napoleon the Little
"Napoleon the Little" by Victor Hugo is a political critique written in the mid-19th century. This work serves as a scathing examination of Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte's rise to power and the consequences of his actions, framing him as a usurper who betrayed the republic. The book delves into the events surrounding Bonaparte’s election and subsequent coup d'état, exploring themes of democracy, tyranny, and the moral decay of society. The opening of the text sets the stage for this critique by recounting the significant moment on December 20, 1848, when Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte is declared President of the French Republic after receiving a majority vote. It describes the atmosphere in the National Assembly as Bonaparte takes his oath of office, highlighting the tension between hope for democratic ideals and the looming threat of autocracy. Victor Hugo reflects on the collective memory of opposing representatives and the foreboding nature of Bonaparte’s future actions, foreshadowing the eventual betrayal of the very principles he swore to uphold. The opening establishes a stark contrast between the promise of the republic and the reality of Bonaparte's ambition, preparing the reader for the unfolding tragedy of French political life under his rule.
Karl Marx
The Eighteenth Brumaire of Louis Bonaparte
"The Eighteenth Brumaire of Louis Bonaparte" by Karl Marx is an essay written between December 1851 and March 1852. Marx analyzes the 1851 French coup d'état that transformed Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte from president into emperor. Applying his theory of historical materialism, Marx examines how class struggle and divisions among social groups enabled "a grotesque mediocrity to play a hero's part." The work explores the emergence of the Bonapartist state and features Marx's famous observation that history repeats itself—first as tragedy, then as farce.
Victor Hugo
Napoléon Le Petit
"Napoléon Le Petit" by Victor Hugo is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The text primarily critiques the rise of Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte, recounting the significant political events that led to his presidency and highlighting the implications of his actions for the French Republic. Through this examination, Hugo provides insight into the tumultuous nature of French politics during a crucial period. The opening of the work sets the stage on December 20, 1848, when the French National Assembly declares Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte as president. The atmosphere is tense, filled with the murmurs of representatives reflecting on Bonaparte's stormy past—his attempts to gain power through military means and the emotions surrounding his election as a harbinger of an uncertain future. Hugo illustrates the mixed emotions of admiration and skepticism that Bonaparte inspires among his peers, while also foreshadowing the tragic political events that will unfold under his rule, including the eventual dissolution of the Republic he pledged to uphold. The narrative unfolds with a dramatic portrayal of the moment, illustrating both the solemnity of the presidential oath and the looming shadow of betrayal that would characterize Bonaparte's presidency.
Alexis de Tocqueville
Correspondence & Conversations of Alexis de Tocqueville with Nassau William Senior from 1834 to 1859, Volume 2
"Correspondence & Conversations of Alexis de Tocqueville with Nassau William Senior" edited by M.C.M. Simpson is a collection of letters and dialogues documented over a span of years from the early to mid-19th century. This historical account delves into the political landscape and social theories of the time, particularly focusing on the events surrounding the French political upheaval and the rise of Louis Napoleon. The correspondence likely examines Tocqueville's reflections on democracy, tyranny, and the consequences of political decisions, providing insights into his profound philosophical insights as a thinker. At the start of the work, readers are introduced to the context of Tocqueville’s thoughts, emerging from the backdrop of the tumultuous political environment of France post-1848 revolutions. The opening reveals Tocqueville’s conversations with Nassau William Senior, where they discuss the military takeover by Louis Napoleon and the implications for French governance, civil liberties, and societal structures. Tocqueville emphasizes the unprecedented nature of this coup, highlighting the tension between the army and civilian governance, and reflects on the potential dangers of despotism ignited by fear of socialism. This initial exchange sets the tone for the subsequent letters and journals, positioning Tocqueville as a keen observer of the complexities of democracy and authoritarianism.
Karl Marx
Le lotte di classe in Francia dal 1848 al 1850
"Le lotte di classe in Francia dal 1848 al 1850" by Karl Marx is a series of articles written in 1850. Marx examines the revolutionary upheavals in France during 1848, arguing that the conflict wasn't between workers and capitalists, but between factions within the bourgeoisie itself. He traces how economic crises triggered political revolt, analyzes the manipulation of public policy for private enrichment, and reveals how the proletariat was used as support for bourgeois power struggles only to be pushed aside once a new republic was established.
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