Nationalism fueled by Political Symbols during French Revolution
Reading Political Symbols in the 18th Century
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- During the 18th century, most people could not read or write.
- Images and symbols were commonly used to communicate important ideas.
- The painting by Le Barbier conveys the content of the Declaration of Rights through various symbols:
- Symbols and Their Meanings
- Snake Biting Its Tail to Form a Ring:
- Symbol of Eternity.
- A ring has neither beginning nor end.
- Sceptre:
- Symbol of royal power.
- The Eye Within a Triangle Radiating Light:
- The all-seeing eye represents knowledge.
- The rays of the sun symbolize driving away the clouds of ignorance.
- The Bundle of Rods or Fasces:
- One rod can be easily broken, but not an entire bundle.
- Symbolizes that strength lies in unity.
- The Broken Chain:
- Chains were used to fetter slaves.
- A broken chain symbolizes the act of becoming free.
- Red Phrygian Cap:
- A cap worn by a slave upon becoming free.
- Blue-White-Red:
- The national colors of France.
- The Winged Woman:
- Personification of the law.
- The Law Tablet:
- Represents that the law is the same for all.
- All individuals are equal before the law.
- Snake Biting Its Tail to Form a Ring:
