The Origins of Contemporary France, Complete Table of Contents

"The Origins of Contemporary France, Complete Table of Contents" by Hippolyte Taine is a historical exploration from the late 1800s that charts the course of France into the modern era. The book examines the influence of the old ways of governing, the French Revolution, and the ascent of Napoleon Bonaparte, focusing on the societal rules, moral standards, and key beliefs of the time. The first part highlights the power and special treatment given to the church, the wealthy, and the king and queen before the revolution, illustrating the societal structure and the effect it had on ordinary citizens. As the story moves into the French Revolution, it shows how the failures of the past led to common people losing hope and becoming unhappy, while it follows the rise of groups like the Jacobins, the slide into violence, and Napoleon's takeover. The book paints a picture of how the revolution transformed the country amid chaos and change, giving rise to the modern state.