The Rest Is History – Episode 507: The French Revolution: The Marseillaise, Song of War (Part 5)

Release Date: October 24, 2024

Introduction

In this episode of The Rest Is History, hosts Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland delve into the intricate origins and profound impact of "La Marseillaise," the stirring national anthem of France. Exploring its creation during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution, they examine how the anthem encapsulates the revolutionary fervor and the deep-seated influences of Roman republicanism on the movement.

The Birth of "La Marseillaise"

Dominic Sandbrook opens the discussion by referencing the production of "La Marseillaise," noting its status as the quintessential revolutionary song:

“[...] it's the one French revolutionary song that everybody now remembers.” ([03:49])

Tom Holland adds context by highlighting Napoleon's initial disdain for the anthem:

“Napoleon didn't like it. He kind of pushed it back to the margins.” ([04:10])

Despite Napoleon's objections, "La Marseillaise" endured political shifts:

“After the revolution, after Napoleon, Louis XVI's brothers, Louis XVIII and Charles X, come back. They obviously hate it, so they ban it completely. But the Marseillaise is never forgotten and it ends up as the national anthem of France.” ([04:10])

Musical Composition and Propagation

The origins of the anthem are traced back to a pivotal dinner hosted by Philippe Dietrich, an iron master and industrialist embodying the Enlightenment ideals amidst the brewing revolution. At this gathering, the need for a new, patriotic marching song suited to the citizen army becomes apparent.

Tom Holland narrates the creation:

“At that dinner there is a captain called Roger Delille [...] he spends all night writing a song that he very catchily calls the Song of the army of the Rhine.” ([07:12])

The anthem quickly gains popularity as soldiers sing it across France, leading to its adoption by the Jacobin Club in Marseille:

“They march into the city and the sound of their singing is electrifying for a city that is already on edge...” ([12:05])

Symbolism and Influence of Roman Republicanism

A significant portion of the episode explores the deep influence of Roman republican symbols and ideals on the French Revolution. Dominic Sandbrook emphasizes the revolutionaries' aspiration to emulate the early Roman Republic:

“The revolutionaries think that they're beginning the world again [...] they also consciously role-playing as ancient Romans, as Roman Republicans.” ([22:31])

Tom Holland concurs, highlighting the Enlightenment's reverence for pre-Christian Roman aesthetics:

“They are admiring that period of Roman history [...] their sense that this offers a glimpse of a pre-Christian order.” ([22:40])

The incorporation of Roman symbols is further illustrated through fashion and public rituals:

• Bonnet Rouge: Adopted as a symbol of liberty, derived from the Roman Pilus.
• Fasces: Emblematic rods representing authority, later associated with fascism but originally a Roman symbol of magistrate power.

Notable Quote on Symbolism:

“With this mind, his first desire is to become the owner of a bonnet rouge.” ([37:34])

Cultural Cross-Pollination Between Classes

The episode delves into the fascinating interplay between the working-class sans culottes and the educated elites, both adopting classical Roman styles to express revolutionary ideals.

Dominic Sandbrook points out:

“The sans culottes are the kind of urban working-class radicals, but [...] there are elites who are dressing like the masses.” ([33:16])

Tom Holland elaborates on how symbols like the bonnet rouge became markers of political allegiance:

“A bonnet rouge is more obvious as a marker of political loyalty.” ([36:36])

This blending of styles showcases a broader cultural shift where traditional class distinctions blur in favor of a unified revolutionary identity.

The Enduring Legacy and Controversies

While "La Marseillaise" remains a powerful symbol of French patriotism, its martial and sanguinary lyrics have sparked ongoing debates. Some advocate for softer language, while others defend its aggressive tone as necessary for rallying citizens in revolutionary times.

Tom Holland reflects on modern perceptions:

“There are still occasional proposals in France to this day that the lyrics perhaps should be rewritten to be slightly less carnivorous.” ([17:03])

Conversely, the anthem's fervor is seen as essential for mobilizing a populace embracing republican virtues:

“It's exactly what people on the more radical fringes of the revolution want.” ([17:03])

Conclusion and Teaser for Future Episodes

As the episode wraps up, Sandbrook and Holland tease future discussions on the Roman influences in the French Revolution and other historical parallels. They hint at exploring how ancient symbols continue to resonate in modern political movements, maintaining the cyclical nature of history.

Dominic Sandbrook concludes:

“Tomorrow. You're on the right side of history, aren't you, Do Gooder with Theo...” ([44:31])

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dominic Sandbrook: “He is attracted by the Marseillaise [...] the song of an hour of need.” ([07:55])
• Tom Holland: “The bottom line is it starts to kind of go viral.” ([12:25])
• Dominic Sandbrook: “The song that comes to be called the Marseillaise [...] it's giving it a Roman quality.” ([16:14])
• Tom Holland: “Its influence is obviously in one sense, elite.” ([25:32])

Final Thoughts

Episode 507 offers an in-depth exploration of "La Marseillaise," intertwining musical history with cultural and political analysis. By examining the anthem's roots and its symbolic resonance, Sandbrook and Holland provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of how a simple song can encapsulate the spirit of a revolution and echo the ideals of ancient republics.

For those intrigued by the complexities of the French Revolution and the power of national symbols, this episode serves as a compelling and informative listen.

Join The Rest Is History Club for ad-free listening, access to exclusive content, and a vibrant community of history enthusiasts. Visit therestishistory.com to subscribe.