Napoleon
Introduction
The article chosen for evaluation was “Napoleon’s Account of the Internal Situation of France in 1804”. The text was written as an explanation to why France needed the position of Emperor who was appointed for a lifetime. The letter also explains why the position should be inheritable rather than an elected position.
Religion
Napoleon describes his relationship with religion as one that can perform under the “eye of the Eternal”. He attaches himself, and his heirs, to religion by stating that religion “exhibits itself in the acts of humanity”. Napoleon wanted to impress upon the people that the position of Emperor was one that could govern with acts of humanity and thus be sanctioned by the “Eternal” and those who lead the different sects who worship God. The approval of the religious sects was granted when the ceremony anointing him as Emperor was officiated by the head of the Church.
His Legacy
Napoleon reveals his concern about his legacy by pushing for the declaration of him as Emperor and for including that his position should be inheritable. His legacy is insured by the passing of the title to his sons, grandsons, etc. So long as his heirs act upon the good faith promised by Napoleon, to the people of France, then his legacy lives on. If his heirs act differently, or negatively, then his legacy dies.
Accomplishments of Rule
There are four major accomplishments of Napoleon’s rule.
The first is the safeguarding of the legislation that’s was active when he was declared Emperor. He explained that the legislation would need little modification because of the consistency of Imperial rule. He also mentioned that the criminal code would need little modification.
The second major accomplishment of Napoleon’s rule was the opening of new schools. He mentioned the existence of motivated learners ready to take their places in these schools. Most significant was the establishment of the polytechnic schools which provided educated workers ready, and prepared for, work.
The third major accomplishment of Napoleon’s rule was the establishment of commerce on the left bank of the Rhine (River). The French had established manufacturing that was comparable or better than what the English could provide. It sounds important to Napoleon that the French be able to compete in the open market outside of France as well as on the shores of France.
The fourth major accomplishment of Napoleon’s rule was the resumption of religion within France. He mentions the mutual respect among the religions that worship the same God.
Confirming the resumption of religion was the Church’s officiating at his Imperial Coronation.
The Best Government
Napoleon believed that the best government was one that passed from father to son so that nothing would be lost in the transfer of an elected government. To Napoleon, the best government-provided France with the consistency that is required to remain a strong, viable, nation.
A Letter from the Left Bank of the Rhine
My Dear Francois;
I am writing from my newly established schoolroom on the left bank of the Rhine. We have been in session for nearly a week now and the situation is full of both good and bad. My students are so excited to be in school learning rather than working alongside their parents. Oftentimes these students miss school because their parents value their work over their future. My students often come to school hungry and tired. It is surprising that they are still motivated to learn.
Napoleon has allowed the churches to once again be a part of everyday life. Many of my students look forward to attending. The churches have also reestablished schools that focus more on religion than the basics of an education.
We can only hope that Napoleon as Emperor will make France a stronger, better, country to live in.
We have visits to our taverns by the English who trash talk our government and people. Napoleon should oust these people as our goods are good, if not better, than the English.