MICHAUD (Joseph-François). - Lot 213

MICHAUD (Joseph-François). (1767–1839) French historian, member of the Académie française, author of the famous *History of the Crusades*. Unsigned autograph manuscript Paris, September 30 [no year]. 1 page, in-4 format. Political text on public opinion and support for the government An interesting manuscript, written in a hand very similar to Michaud’s, offering reflections on the state of public opinion and its gradual alignment with the government. The text opens with a striking anaphoric phrase: “Every day, public opinion aligns more closely with the government; every day, the public mood improves…” The author emphasizes the growing support for the government, both in the capital and in the provinces, and the consolidation of public opinion favorable to the regime. In contrast, he condemns a minority of opponents, whom he vigorously describes as restless and dangerous elements: “schemes,” “rhetoric,” “criminal pamphlets,” which he deems incapable of permanently hindering the course of public opinion. The most striking passage compares these adversaries to fallen figures: “The rebels […] resemble those fallen angels […] haunted by shame and remorse” The text thus reflects a vision very characteristic of the early nineteenth century, when public opinion became a defining moral and political force, called upon to judge and condemn opponents.