Why It Matters Today
Madame Roland's story highlights the power of personal conviction and the complexities of revolutionary ideals, which resonate with current debates on political activism and social change.
Modern Connections
Big Ideas
The importance of personal integrity and intellectual engagement in political activism.
Stand by your beliefs and think deeply about what you're fighting for, just like Madame Roland did.
The complexities and contradictions within revolutionary movements.
Revolutions are messy—people have different reasons and morals that collide.
What You'll Learn
- The life of Madame Roland and her role in the French Revolution.
- The philosophical debates and personal sacrifices involved in revolutionary activism.
- How individual leaders can influence or be consumed by revolutionary tides.
Reader Fit
✅ Good For
- History enthusiasts interested in French Revolution
- Readers interested in women's roles in history
- Debaters of political philosophy
⚠ Not Ideal For
- Readers looking for light or purely entertainment-driven content
- Those uninterested in historical detail or philosophical debates
Controversies & Critiques
- Modern critics may argue that the revolutionary ideals were overly idealistic and led to chaos.
- Some might say Ida Tarbell's portrayal romanticizes Madame Roland while underplaying the violence of the Revolution.
Reading Context
Before Reading
- Basic knowledge of the French Revolution and its timeline.
- Understanding of Enlightenment ideas.
After Reading
- Study of other revolutionary figures like Robespierre or Danton.
- Exploration of modern political revolutions and social movements.
Similar Books
Appeals to fans of: Historical biographies of influential women, Political philosophy and revolutionary history
Classification Details
Author
Ida Tarbell
Published
1896
Language
English
Subjects
France -- History -- Revolution, 1789-1799, Roland, Madame, 1754-1793
Curated Collections
This book appears in these curated collections:
