The French Revolution

Author and Publication

• The French Revolution: A History was written by Thomas Carlyle.
• The first edition of The French Revolution: A History was published in 1837.

Time Period and Context

• The book covers the time period of 1789-1794, focusing on the French Revolution.
• The term "Terror" refers to the period of the French Revolution covered in Carlyle's history, specifically from 1793 to 1794.

Origins and Reception

• Initially, Charles Dickens was intended to write a history of the French Revolution, but he declined, and Carlyle took over.
• The general consensus is that Carlyle's history of the French Revolution is a masterpiece, praised for its literary style and vivid descriptions.
• John Stuart Mill proposed that Thomas Carlyle write The French Revolution: A History.

Significance and Completion

• Carlyle's history of the French Revolution is significant for its unique approach, which emphasizes the role of individual personalities and their motivations.
• The initial plan was for a three-volume work, but it was later expanded to three volumes.
• Carlyle completed the first volume of The French Revolution: A History in 1837.