The Village of Cannibals
by Alain Corbin
"Rage and Murder in France, 1870"
Popularity
4.14 / 5
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The Village of Cannibals by Alain Corbin
Details
War:
Franco-Prussian War
Perspective:
Civilian
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
Europe
Page Count:
184
Published Date:
1992
ISBN13:
9780674939004
Description
Main Themes and Topics
"The Village of Cannibals" by Alain Corbin delves into the themes of collective violence and the social and political factors that incite such horrific acts. The book examines how an ordinary community became embroiled in an extraordinary act of violence and the dynamics that contributed to this transformation. Corbin's analysis shines light on the intersection of fear, rumor, and political tension, while exploring the broader theme of mob mentality in the context of 19th-century France. The narrative encapsulates how deeply rooted anxieties and misunderstandings can ignite into violence, driven by both real and perceived threats to societal norms and structures.
Writing Style and Tone
Alain Corbin utilizes a methodical and analytical writing style that is rich in historical detail, drawing extensively from court documents, eyewitness testimonies, and contemporary journalistic accounts. His tone is scholarly yet accessible, making complex historical and sociopolitical concepts understandable for a general audience. Corbin's meticulous approach highlights his expertise as a historian, as he carefully reconstructs the sequence of events at Hautefaye to illustrate the undercurrents of social discontent and political tension. The narrative is both gripping and informative, maintaining a balance between academic analysis and engaging storytelling.
Brief Summary (no spoilers)
"The Village of Cannibals" centers around the brutal murder of a young nobleman in the village of Hautefaye in 1870. Falsely accused of political dissent, the victim was subjected to unspeakable violence by a mob of peasants during a village fair. This event, shocking in its brutality, captured national attention and was sensationalized by the press. Corbin investigates the social, political, and psychological factors that precipitated this act of collective violence. By examining contemporary narratives and legal records, the book provides a detailed chronicle of the incident and its fallout, offering insights into the motivations behind such tragic outbursts of mob aggression.
