Frédéric Sorrieu's Dream of Worldwide Democratic and Social Republics

Nationalism and Nation Formation

• Ernest Renan criticizes race, language, and geography as the basis for forming a nation.
• The flag carried by the German peoples in the image symbolizes the unity of the German people.

Sorrieu's Artwork

• Sorrieu's artwork visualizes the concept of universal harmony and brotherhood through the depiction of Christ, saints, and angels.
• The first print by Frédéric Sorrieu depicts a utopian vision of a united Europe and America.

National Identity

• Social capital, such as shared history and cultural heritage, is considered the basis upon which a national idea is formed.
• According to Ernst Renan, a group must have a shared sense of history and a collective desire to continue their shared life together to be considered a 'people'.

Nationalism in the 19th Century

• Nationalism manifested itself during the 19th century through the emphasis on unity and the creation of a sense of shared identity among people.

Symbolism in Art

• Artists of the French Revolution often personified Liberty as a female figure, symbolizing the ideals of freedom and democracy.
• The shattered remains of absolutist institutions in Sorrieu's print symbolize the overthrow of monarchical systems and the rise of democratic governments.

Utopian Vision

• In Sorrieu's utopian vision, distinct nations are identified by their respective flags and national symbols.
• An example of a utopian vision is a united Europe and America, where nations coexist in harmony and peace.

Historical Context

• Sorrieu's print captures the historical aspect of the 19th century, where Europe and America were undergoing significant changes and shifts towards democracy and national unity.

Explore the vision of a French artist, Frédéric Sorrieu, who in 1848 created a series of prints depicting a world composed of 'democratic and social Republics'. Dive into the concept of worldwide democratic societies through his artwork.