Terror: The French Revolution and Its Demons.

The article discusses the book "Terror: The French Revolution and Its Demons" by Michel Biard and Marisa Linton. The authors argue that the term "the Terror" was created by historians to impose a particular narrative on the French Revolution, and they advocate for using the term "terror" instead. The book explores the uses and meanings of terror during the Revolution, the emotional aspects of the Revolution, the repression of clergy and suspects, the development of extraordinary measures, and the politicians' role as both victims and perpetrators of terror. The authors also discuss the sans-culottes and the Vendée, and conclude that terror was a lever used by the revolutionary government. The article praises the book but criticizes its top-down focus and lack of consideration for experiences outside of Paris. [Extracted from the article]