Question

Napoleon wrote the following to his brother in 1793 during the Reign of Terror: "Since one must take sides, one might as well choose the side that is victorious, the side which devastates, loots, and burns. Considering the alternative, it is better to eat than be eaten." What do you think he meant?

a. He advised his brother to support the victorious side to ensure their survival.
b. He urged his brother to stay neutral and avoid taking any side.
c. He suggested that his brother join the side that promotes peace and stability.
d. He encouraged his brother to resist violence and destruction.

Answer 1

Napoleon's advice to his brother was to choose the side that is victorious for the sake of survival, reflecting his pragmatic approach to the chaotic conditions of the Reign of Terror and his own pursuit of power. The correct option is a.

Step-by-step explanation:

Napoleon's advice to his brother during the Reign of Terror was an expression of pragmatism amid the chaos of revolutionary France. He meant that in a time of upheaval and violence, it was better to align oneself with the winning side to ensure survival.

His perspective was likely influenced by his own experiences of rising to power through the opportunities presented by the revolution and his subsequent efforts to control and manage the empire he created.

Napoleon believed in the revolutionary principles of reason and efficiency, but he operated in a manner that sought personal power. His emphasis on victory and survival can be seen as a reflection of his actions where he pursued the expansion of his empire, often at the expense of democratic impulses.

In the context of your question, the correct answer would be a. He advised his brother to support the victorious side to ensure their survival. The correct option is a.