Final answer:
People adored Napoleon for promoting legal equality and military prowess, while they despised him for his autocratic rule and the negative impact of his conquests. Despite his tarnished legacy, the cult of Napoleon persisted well after his death, shaping his enduring image as a romantic military hero.
Step-by-step explanation:
People both adored and despised Napoleon Bonaparte for a variety of reasons tied to his complex legacy. Napoleon was revered for his role as a reformer who spread the principles of the French Revolution across Europe, breaking the hold of the traditional nobility and instituting legal reforms like the Napoleonic Code that promoted legal equality.
However, his pursuit of a vast empire, disregard for the sentiments of conquered peoples, and autocratic rule earned him detractors as well. Napoleon's downfall was partly due to his relentless pursuit of military conquests and overreaching ambition, evidenced by the catastrophic invasion of Russia in 1812.
The cult of Napoleon emerged after his death, reflecting his enduring reputation as a romantic hero and military genius, an image bolstered by a persistent propaganda campaign throughout his reign. Yet, this image was not without its flaws.
Napoleon's administration was marked by measures such as executing prisoners and abandoned troops, actions that tarnished his image as a hero. In conclusion, Napoleon's ability to craft a narrative of glory and promote loyalty amongst his troops contributed significantly to his reputation, as much as his real achievements on the battlefield and as a leader.