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Napoleon I, Emperor of the French, 1769-1821 Books
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Louis Antoine Fauvelet de Bourrienne
Memoirs of Napoleon Bonaparte — Complete
"Memoirs of Napoleon Bonaparte — Complete" by Louis Antoine Fauvelet de Bourrienne is an autobiographical historical account written in the late 19th century. This work provides a personal perspective on the life of one of history's most controversial figures, Napoleon Bonaparte, focusing specifically on the author's experiences as his private secretary. The memoirs capture key moments in Napoleon's life from his childhood through his rise to power and, ultimately, his downfall, painting a complex portrait of both the man and the historical period in which he lived. The opening of the memoir begins with Bourrienne recounting his early relationship with Napoleon, starting from their time together at the Military School of Brienne. It details Napoleon's early life, education, and character, emphasizing his aptitude for mathematics and his early ambitions. Bourrienne provides insights into Napoleon's ambitions, his formative experiences, and the small events that shaped his future. He dispels myths about Napoleon's origins and character, presenting a more nuanced view of the young man who would grow into a significant historical figure. This beginning sets up a larger narrative that promises to explore the complexities of Napoleon's life, including his friendships, military campaigns, and political maneuvers.
J. Holland (John Holland) Rose
The Life of Napoleon I (Complete)
"The Life of Napoleon I (Complete)" by J. Holland Rose is a historical account written during the early 20th century. This comprehensive biography explores the life of Napoleon Bonaparte, drawing from new materials sourced from British official records and contemporary historiography. The book delves into critical events and aspects of Napoleon's life, from his Corsican roots to his monumental impact on Europe. The opening of this work introduces readers to Napoleon’s tumultuous background, emphasizing the chaotic environment of Corsica during his youth amid the French Revolution. The narrative reflects on the early influences that shaped his character, including his family's history and the Corsican vendetta culture, which molded his fierce temperament. As we learn about his education in France and his conflicting emotions regarding his homeland and the revolution, Rose sets the stage for Napoleon's subsequent ascendancy as a military leader and statesman. Through this intricate exploration, Rose aims to provide insight into the complexity of Napoleon's ambitions and the socio-political climate that influenced his remarkable life.
Ernest Scott
Terre Napoleón; a History of French Explorations and Projects in Australia
"Terre Napoleón; a History of French Explorations and Projects in Australia" by Ernest Scott is a historical account likely written in the early 20th century. This work delves into French expeditions led by Napoleon Bonaparte to Australia from 1800 to 1804, particularly focusing on the actions and findings of Captain Nicolas Baudin. It seeks to challenge commonly accepted historical narratives regarding the motivations and outcomes of these explorations, including the alleged desire of the French to establish a colony and the supposed plagiarism of British navigator Matthew Flinders' charts. The beginning of the book primarily serves to outline Scott's objectives and the historical context surrounding the French explorations. It discusses the colonial situations of both Britain and France during the Napoleonic Wars and introduces key figures such as Napoleon and Baudin, setting the stage for the exploration narrative. Scott hints at a careful examination of evidence, encouraging readers to rethink established beliefs about the expeditions' political and scientific aims. The opening also introduces the central question of whether Baudin was genuinely seeking new territory or merely engaged in scientific pursuits, establishing an analytical approach that will characterize the unfolding narrative.
William Milligan Sloane
The Life of Napoleon Bonaparte. Vol. 4 (of 4)
"The Life of Napoleon Bonaparte. Vol. 4 (of 4)" by William Milligan Sloane is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This volume continues the exploration of the life, military endeavors, and political maneuvers of one of history's most significant figures, Napoleon Bonaparte. Sloane delves into events following Napoleon's dramatic final victories and the intricate strategies that led to his eventual downfall in Europe. The opening of the text introduces the immediate aftermath of Napoleon's last imperial victory, focusing on his military strategies during the tumultuous battles of 1813. It details the coalition of allied forces opposed to Napoleon, their shifting fortunes, and how their nationalistic fervor influenced the conflict. Sloane portrays Napoleon's psychological state as he navigates the challenges of war, highlighting his tactical prowess against an increasingly collaborative enemy, while foreshadowing the eventual collapse of his grand ambitions and the extensive human cost of the conflict.
Louis Constant Wairy
Recollections of the Private Life of Napoleon — Complete
"Recollections of the Private Life of Napoleon" by Louis Constant Wairy is a historical memoir written in the early 19th century. The book offers an intimate perspective on Napoleon Bonaparte, presented through the eyes of Constant Wairy, who served as his personal valet for over fifteen years. The memoir charts the personal and private life of Napoleon, detailing both his admirable qualities and his flaws, thereby offering a nuanced view of a man whose political life has often overshadowed his humanity. The opening of the memoir sets the tone for the narrative by outlining Wairy’s background and the circumstances that led him to serve the Emperor. He reflects on his early life, recounting how his chance encounters and the upheaval of the Revolution shaped his path. Describing the vivid experiences he shared with Napoleon, from witnessing daily life in the imperial court to significant historical events, Wairy emphasizes the extraordinary nature of Napoleon's character. The narrative promises to reveal both the grandeur and the fallibility of one of history's most complex figures, inviting readers to explore the man behind the myth as seen through the lens of loyalty and firsthand experience.
Thomas E. (Thomas Edward) Watson
Napoleon: A Sketch of His Life, Character, Struggles, and Achievements
"Napoleon: A Sketch of His Life, Character, Struggles, and Achievements" by Thomas E. Watson is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This biography aims to present a comprehensive overview of Napoleon Bonaparte, detailing his life events, character traits, struggles, and accomplishments from his early years to his rise in power and later life. Watson endeavors to depict Napoleon through the lens of an average person, offering insight into the complexities of his legacy. The opening of the book introduces Corsica, Napoleon's birthplace, highlighting its tumultuous history filled with wars and struggles for independence. The narrative establishes a backdrop of the island's political dynamics, illustrating the resilience and relentless fight of its people against various foreign dominations. Here, Watson discusses the island's dramatic history leading up to the birth of Napoleon in a war-torn environment, infused with strong nationalist sentiments and legacies of local heroes that likely influenced the young Bonaparte. This contextual foundation sets the stage for the exploration of Napoleon's character and his eventual impact on France and the world.
Ida M. (Ida Minerva) Tarbell
A Life of Napoleon Bonaparte, with a Sketch of Josephine, Empress of the French.
"A Life of Napoleon Bonaparte, with a Sketch of Josephine, Empress of the French" by Ida M. Tarbell is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work provides an in-depth exploration of Napoleon Bonaparte’s life, detailing his rise to power, personal struggles, and his relationship with Josephine, who was both his wife and a key figure in his life. The book aims to present a comprehensive view of Napoleon, including his military campaigns, political maneuvers, and the societal influences that shaped his actions. The opening of the book introduces the early life of Napoleon Bonaparte, starting with an overview of his family background. It paints a vivid portrait of his mother, Lætitia, whose strength and character significantly influenced his upbringing in Corsica, amidst the backdrop of French colonial rule and local unrest. As the narrative unfolds, it captures young Napoleon's complex emotions, including his feelings of alienation at the French military school in Brienne, where he grappled with poverty, cultural differences, and a fierce pride in his Corsican heritage. The section sets the stage for how these formative experiences instilled in him a burning ambition and desire for recognition, foreshadowing his eventual rise as one of history's most powerful figures.
Harold Wheeler
The Story of Napoleon
"The Story of Napoleon" by Harold F. Wheeler is a historical account, likely written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the life and career of Napoleon Bonaparte, from his childhood in Corsica to his rise as Emperor of the French and his complex legacy in European history. It delves into the various phases of Napoleon's life, exploring his military conquests, political ambitions, and the profound impact he had on France and the wider world. At the start of the narrative, the author introduces Napoleon not merely as a conqueror but as a complex individual shaped by his upbringing and early experiences. We learn of his birth in Ajaccio, Corsica, in August 1769, and the early influences from his mother, Letizia, and father, Charles Bonaparte. The opening chapters depict a young Napoleon as impetuous and self-confident, developing into a passionate and ambitious boy during his formative years. His education, marked by a thirst for knowledge and a talent for mathematics and history, sets the stage for his future military career. Wheeler hints at the shaping of Napoleon's character through anecdotes about his school days and the early signs of his remarkable leadership qualities, providing a foundation for understanding the man who would go on to change the course of history.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Representative Men: Seven Lectures
"Representative Men: Seven Lectures" by Ralph Waldo Emerson is a philosophical work written during the mid-19th century. This collection of lectures explores the influential figures in human history, examining how their ideas and actions shape society and serve as models for others. Emerson delves into the lives and philosophies of notable personalities such as Plato, Swedenborg, Montaigne, Shakespeare, Napoleon, and Goethe, emphasizing the role of great individuals in driving human progress and understanding. The opening of the text introduces Emerson's view on the significance of great men, stating that humanity's belief in such figures is natural and even poetic. He emphasizes that society derives joy and meaning from these paragons, who serve as lenses through which individuals can grasp complex ideas and aspirations. Emerson discusses the societal impact of these figures, asserting that their thoughts inspire collective action and serve as moral compasses. Through this exploration, he sets the stage for a deeper analysis of each representative figure in the subsequent lectures, revealing how they contribute to a greater understanding of human nature and the fabric of civilization.
J. Holland (John Holland) Rose
The Life of Napoleon I (Volume 2 of 2)
"The Life of Napoleon I (Volume 2 of 2)" by J. Holland Rose is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This volume builds upon earlier studies of the life and political career of Napoleon Bonaparte, delving into critical events such as military campaigns, diplomatic maneuvers, and the socio-political landscape of Europe during his reign. The book likely covers significant battles and decisions that shaped the course of French and European history, particularly focusing on the period of the Third Coalition against Napoleon. The opening of this volume introduces the backdrop of Napoleon's rise to power and his contentious relationships with other European monarchs. It outlines the tension leading to the Third Coalition, detailing Napoleon's actions that incited resentment, such as his conflicts with Austria and Russia. The narrative emphasizes the complexities of international diplomacy at the time and sets the stage for the unfolding military campaigns, highlighting key players like the young Czar Alexander and the Austrian leadership. As the chapter unfolds, it becomes clear that the author aims to provide both a narrative of events and an analysis of the strategic and personal motivations behind the actions of Napoleon and his contemporaries.
William Milligan Sloane
The Life of Napoleon Bonaparte. Vol. 1 (of 4)
"The Life of Napoleon Bonaparte, Vol. 1" by William Milligan Sloane is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the life and times of Napoleon Bonaparte, detailing his rise from a Corsican background to political and military prominence. Sloane delves into the socio-political climate of Europe during Napoleon's lifetime, providing a comprehensive view of his character, influences, and the historical context that shaped his actions. The opening of the volume establishes the turmoil of the late 18th century as Europe grappled with revolutionary ideas and movements, notably in France and Corsica. Sloane introduces Napoleon's early environment, including his family background, the sociopolitical landscape of Corsica, and the historical heroes that inspired him, particularly Pascal Paoli. The narrative outlines the complexities of Corsican identity and politics, setting the stage for Napoleon's birth amidst conflict. Through detailed descriptions, the author offers insights into how these factors contributed to shaping the young Napoleone di Buonaparte's ambitions and character, as well as hinting at the significant events that would later define his legendary status.
Walter Scott
Life of Napoleon Bonaparte, Volume II.
"Life of Napoleon Bonaparte, Volume II" by Walter Scott is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume explores the early life and military career of Napoleon Bonaparte, tracing his rise from his childhood in Corsica through his education and military exploits during the French Revolution. The book focuses on pivotal events that shaped Napoleon's character and trajectory, highlighting his political engagement and eventual prominence in the French military. The opening of the book delves into the early life of Napoleon, detailing his family background and childhood in Corsica. It presents an in-depth look at his education at the Royal Military School at Brienne, where his aptitude for mathematics shone through despite a noted deficiency in classical studies. The narrative captures his gradual ascent through the military ranks, including his early political engagement and decisions that led to his banishment from Corsica. Napoleon's character is illustrated through anecdotes, revealing a complex personality driven by ambition and a longing for distinction that would later define his remarkable career.
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