The French Revolution: Causes & Effects on English Literature
The French Revolution, erupting in 1789, had far-reaching consequences not only for the political and social landscape of France but also exerted a profound influence on the entire continent. Centuries of oppression were brought to an end as democratic ideals spread like wildfire, dismantling the power structures of kings and aristocrats. A surge of humanitarian enthusiasm and dreams of progress swept through the passionate souls of young revolutionaries, as expressed by Wordsworth: “But Europe at the time was thrilled with joy
France standing on the top of golden hours
And human nature seeming born again.” The Causes Behind the French Revolution The French Revolution was fueled by several underlying causes: The French society was divided into three orders or "estates": the clergy, the nobility, and the rest of the population known as the Third Estate. The first two estates enjoyed special privileges, while the Third Estate endured immense suffering and poverty. The lavish extrav…