Subject
Napoleon I, Emperor of the French, 1769-1821 -- Captivity, 1815-1821 Books
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Emmanuel-Auguste-Dieudonné Las Cases
Memoirs of the life, exile, and conversations of the Emperor Napoleon. (Vol. I)
"Memoirs of the life, exile, and conversations of the Emperor Napoleon. (Vol. I)" by Emmanuel de Las Cases is a journal-memoir first published in 1823. The work transcribes Las Cases' near-daily conversations with Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile on Saint Helena, capturing the former Emperor's reflections on his life, career, and political philosophy. Begun aboard ship after Waterloo and continued until Las Cases' expulsion from the island, these intimate dialogues became a literary sensation and founding text of the Napoleon cult, shaping how generations understood the fallen emperor's legacy.
Emmanuel-Auguste-Dieudonné Las Cases
Memoirs of the life, exile, and conversations of the Emperor Napoleon. (Vol. III)
"Memoirs of the Life, Exile, and Conversations of the Emperor Napoleon" by the Count de Las Cases is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The work details the life and reflections of Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile, providing insights into his thoughts and experiences, particularly during his time on St. Helena. As a memoir, it focuses on the personal anecdotes and discussions between the Emperor and those close to him, shedding light on his character, ambitions, and perspectives on politics and history. The opening of the memoir presents a glimpse into Napoleon's daily life and his interactions with those around him. On July 15, 1816, the Emperor converses with Las Cases while walking, discussing political matters related to his exile. He reflects on the historical significance of projects like the works at Cherbourg, showcasing not only his military and naval ambitions but also his frustrations with the government and society as they relate to his legacy. Additionally, the narrative explores Napoleon's relationships and sentiments regarding figures from history, making it clear that his mind is occupied with both personal and national concerns, as he grapples with his current circumstances and the legacy he wishes to leave behind.
Emmanuel-Auguste-Dieudonné Las Cases
Memoirs of the life, exile, and conversations of the Emperor Napoleon. (Vol. IV)
"Memoirs of the Life, Exile, and Conversations of the Emperor Napoleon" by Count de Las Cases is a historical account written in the early 19th century. This work provides a detailed perspective on Napoleon Bonaparte's life during his exile, particularly focusing on his reflections, conversations, and the circumstances surrounding his confinement on Saint Helena. The memoir captures the introspective thoughts of this iconic ruler, exploring themes of power, ambition, personal loss, and resilience. At the start of the volume, the reader witnesses Napoleon in a state of physical and emotional decline, grappling with his memories and regrets as he reflects on his past victories and the happiness of his early life. The opening reveals his low spirits as he engages in idle pastimes, such as chess and reading, while contemplating the recent removal of some members of his household. He expresses his nostalgia for better times through conversations about his youthful experiences and military accolades, showing a complex blend of pride and sorrow. The interactions with his attendants during meals provide insight into his character, illustrating his charisma and dignity even in despair, as he discusses the injustices of his situation and the oppressive governance under Sir Hudson Lowe.
Emmanuel-Auguste-Dieudonné Las Cases
Memoirs of the life, exile, and conversations of the Emperor Napoleon. (Vol. II)
"Memoirs of the Life, Exile, and Conversations of the Emperor Napoleon" by Count de Las Cases is a historical account likely written in the early 19th century. This work serves as a personal insight into the life and thoughts of Napoleon Bonaparte, particularly during his time in exile on the island of Saint Helena. The text encapsulates dialogues and contemplations of Napoleon, reflecting his character, political philosophy, and remorse over his past actions and relationships, especially concerning his wives and the political situation in France. The opening of the memoir introduces a conversation held by Napoleon, where he discusses the nature of women, particularly his two empresses, Josephine and Maria-Louisa, and shares reflections on his past reign and the circumstances of his downfall. He suggests that his past experiences and ambitions contrast starkly with his current state of exile. The passage also highlights his enduring connection to France and his unwavering belief in his role as a necessary leader, contemplating the implications of his return to power. Furthermore, it illustrates Napoleon's sharp observations about social and political dynamics, emphasizing both his regrets and reflections on the fickleness of fortune and the intricacies of power.
Frederick Lewis Maitland
The Surrender of Napoleon Being the narrative of the surrender of Buonaparte, and of his residence on board H.M.S. Bellerophon, with a detail of the principal events that occurred in that ship between the 24th of May and the 8th of August 1815
"The Surrender of Napoleon" by Sir Frederick Lewis Maitland is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The work recounts the events surrounding the surrender of Napoleon Bonaparte, detailing his time on board the British ship H.M.S. Bellerophon from May to August 1815. The narrative offers a unique perspective from an eyewitness who played a prominent role in these significant historical moments, seeking to clarify and clarify several misconceptions about Napoleon's experience during his confinement. At the start of the narrative, the author sets the stage for his subsequent account by outlining the context in which he was commanded to intercept Napoleon’s potential escape following his defeat. Maitland describes the tense atmosphere aboard the Bellerophon as the crew receives sealed orders, learns of Napoleon’s potential movements, and prepares for action—demonstrating both military vigilance and the impending historical significance of their mission. The opening portion effectively establishes a sense of urgency, as well as the personal and professional challenges Maitland faced, foreshadowing the dramatic encounters with Napoleon that will unfold in the ensuing chapters.
Walter Runciman Runciman
The Tragedy of St. Helena
"The Tragedy of St. Helena" by Sir Walter Runciman is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book provides an analytical view of Napoleon Bonaparte's exile in St. Helena, emphasizing the complexities of his character and the treatment he received during his captivity. It aims to reassess the common perceptions surrounding Napoleon, highlighting his humanity and the injustices he faced. The opening of the text sets the stage by presenting the author's reflections on how opinions about Napoleon were shaped among British sailors and their experiences of his character, juxtaposed with the narrative constructed by the British government. The preface discusses the author's transformation from an anti-Napoleonic stance, influenced by sailors’ tales and literature, to a more sympathetic view of the exiled emperor after extensive research. Runciman’s argument centers on the cruelty of his treatment, notably under Sir Hudson Lowe's governance, and suggests that public perception may eventually recognize Napoleon's plight as a significant moral failure of the British authorities.
Helen Leah Reed
Napoleon's Young Neighbor
"Napoleon's Young Neighbor" by Helen Leah Reed is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the years following Napoleon Bonaparte's defeat and his exile to the remote island of St. Helena. It follows the life of a young girl named Betsy Balcombe, who is particularly intrigued and disturbed by the arrival of the infamous Napoleon as a neighbor and political prisoner, bringing the complexities of history into her once-quiet life. At the start of the narrative, the Balcombe family, living in an idyllic cottage on St. Helena, receives the shocking news of Napoleon's imminent arrival from Elba as a prisoner due to his defeat at Waterloo. Young Betsy, initially terrified, grapples with the dichotomy of viewing Napoleon as a monster and as a human being who will live among them. Her feelings evolve as she begins to interact with the Emperor, discovering his charm and intellect, leading to a budding friendship that transforms her perception of him amidst the backdrop of war and political turmoil. The opening chapters set the stage for an exploration of innocence lost, the nature of heroism, and the strange coexistence of personal and historical narratives.
Emperor of the French Napoleon I
Napoleon's Appeal to the British Nation, on His Treatment at Saint Helena
"Napoleon's Appeal to the British Nation, on His Treatment at Saint Helena" is a historical account written by Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, dictated as a formal memoir in 1817. The book details Napoleon's grievances regarding his treatment on the remote island of Saint Helena, where he was exiled after his abdication. This document serves as an appeal to public opinion in Britain, presenting his case for being treated with dignity and justice. In this poignant memoir, Napoleon outlines the harsh living conditions and inadequate provisions he faces at Longwood, where he was forced to reside under the supervision of British authorities. He describes the poor quality of food, the unsanitary conditions in which he lives, and the strict limitations imposed on his communication and freedom. Napoleon passionately argues against the legality of his captivity, asserting that he is not a prisoner in the traditional sense, but rather a victim of political machinations by European powers. The appeal reveals not only Napoleon's personal suffering but also reflects broader themes of power, dignity, and the treatment of political figures in exile.
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