Interestingly though - when I try to tap into my initial reactions to the film, knowing nothing of the Revolution - what I remember distinctly, which seems to disagree with what people say about it, is that I felt very sympathetic toward Robespierre - as in the scene when he's lying there sweating at the end; I think I came away with the impression that his was the character you could really understand in the end. (And I don't think it was some sort of intrinsic personal bias since I've often since been more inclined toward the Dantonists!) Obviously I don't want to suggest that everyone who sees it will share my impression; but at least I know it's possible - so I've wondered if it's primarily people who know the situation who see Robespierre as being so vilified in the film. That is quite a general statement and the reaction of a then-15-year-old american is not necessarily the best testimonial; but it would be interesting to see what the 'average person' really gets out of Danton. For myself, I've no idea exactly how I feel about it, but that's fine with me.
Yes. :( Well, I suppose I haven't yet discovered a historian for whom this was not the case. (If anyone has, I'm not sure whether I'll be impressed or wary.)
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timeasmymeasure
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Date: 2008-08-23 07:48 pm (UTC)Interestingly though - when I try to tap into my initial reactions to the film, knowing nothing of the Revolution - what I remember distinctly, which seems to disagree with what people say about it, is that I felt very sympathetic toward Robespierre - as in the scene when he's lying there sweating at the end; I think I came away with the impression that his was the character you could really understand in the end. (And I don't think it was some sort of intrinsic personal bias since I've often since been more inclined toward the Dantonists!) Obviously I don't want to suggest that everyone who sees it will share my impression; but at least I know it's possible - so I've wondered if it's primarily people who know the situation who see Robespierre as being so vilified in the film. That is quite a general statement and the reaction of a then-15-year-old american is not necessarily the best testimonial; but it would be interesting to see what the 'average person' really gets out of Danton. For myself, I've no idea exactly how I feel about it, but that's fine with me.
Yes. :( Well, I suppose I haven't yet discovered a historian for whom this was not the case. (If anyone has, I'm not sure whether I'll be impressed or wary.)