Book Review:

The Longman Companion
to the French Revolution

by Colin Jones

Reviewed by Paul Chamberlain


Published by Longman (1995 - First published 1988), price œ 17.99 ISBN 0- 582-49417-6 Paperback, 473 pages, 9 maps, 3 figures.

This is an encyclopaedia of the French Revolution and the wars that resulted from this event. It is not a book that can be read from cover to cover, but is a very detailed work that students will usefully consult if they require facts pertaining to this period.

The work looks at the 18th Century background to the Revolution, detailing the financial and social problems existing in France at the time. French politics are examined, describing the actions of Louis XVI and his ministers. The story of the events and the situation in France before, during and after the Revolution is detailed in chronological sequence, together with the effect the Revolution had upon Europe and the world.

This is certainly a very full work, and should become the reference book of this subject for any student of 1 8th century history. There are sections that describe the revolutionary fervour that swept France; the Convention and how this body developed; the Directory; and the framework of government during and after the Revolution.

The book is packed with tables and charts explaining the entire effect of this great social change in France; on religion, trade and industry, and politics. One particular table that is featured describes the impact of the Terror, and lists the number of death sentences in different parts of the country.

There is a chronological table comparing the international situation resulting from contemporary French events to the other European nations at the time. One of the largest chapters of the book gives biographies of the important characters of the time. There is also a glossary of French Revolutionary terms, and a select bibliography.

The Longman Companion to the French Revolution is a highly detailed 'bible' of the French Revolution, representing the collation of a fantastic amount of information. If you have an interest in this subject (not just the military side) then this is a book that will provide as much background information as you may require.

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