The French Revolution - Volume 1

"The French Revolution - Volume 1" by Hippolyte Taine is a historical work that pulls readers into the heart of the French Revolution, specifically detailing the circumstances that caused the end of the French monarchy and the power of revolutionary groups. It focuses on the widespread chaos in late 1700's France, thoroughly studying the political, social, and economic conditions, demonstrating the rise of general disorder and rebellion. The book starts by setting the stage for the Revolution, explaining themes of civil disturbance and lawlessness through studies of high costs and shortages of food in the late 1780s, which caused public anger, and in turn, mass protests and violent displays of anger. It highlights the horrible environments in Paris, where starvation and need pushed people to extreme actions, which led to important historical events like the assault on the Bastille fortress. Using very detailed evaluations of society roles, food supply problems, and the desires of the working class, the beginning chapters bring readers into the difficult truths of the time and the disintegration of historical traditions in France.