Influences
On Robespierre
Influences
On Robespierre
In his early career, Robespierre's work in law influenced his perception
of the world. Seeing many people's rights being abused led him to
formulate a philosophy on the rights of man. He considered ways society
might be reformed through the law. As a young ambitious man, Robespierre
was concerned with obtaining justice through peaceful means much like the
doctrines of thought from Baron
de Montesquieu. In 1783, Robespierre represented a humanitarian
nationalist--not a blood thirsty tyrant. He echoed the beliefs of
Montesquieu who asserted that virtue in a republic was only acquired by
the common man adopting its ideals--not the highest person in the state.
What changed Robespierre from a peaceful idealist to a dictator and tyrant??
The influences of Jean-Jacques
Rousseau and Robespierre's involvement in the Jacobin
Club and the Committee
of Public Safety greatly changed his peaceful ideals. Robespierre
shared Rousseau's interest in the welfare of all people and his religious
beliefs centering around the Supreme Being. Also, Robespierre clearly
implemented Rousseau's philosophy of "Liberty,
Equality, Fraternity" as the French Revolution's
ideals. Rousseau believed that anyone challenging these basic rights
of man should be put to death. Robespierre adopted this philosophy
and justified his actions by saying he was using violence to protect the
basic rights of man. Rousseau further influenced Robespierre with
his belief that the inseparability of poverty, virtue, and democracy was
the best form of government. Robespierre also followed Rousseau's
view that virtue and simplicity were inseparable. Robespierre went
as far as sleeping with a copy of Rousseau's Social
Contract at his side.
Robespierre was also influenced by the powerful Jacobin Club, which he
headed. They were a radical group that advocated exile for France's
nobility. Robespierre's position in the radical political party aided
to develop his opinion that violence was a more effective means of reaching
equality. Lastly, his formation and involvement in the Committee
of Public Safety in 1784, further elevated this belief of the efficiency
and effectiveness of violence.
 Back
to Home Page |
 |