Danton and the French Revolution

by Kireet Joshi

“In his studies of human evolution, Sri Aurobindo gave a special importance to the French Revolution as one of those rare moments when the Spirit seems to move directly masses of humanity. And for him, the role of Danton in those events was crucial: “There are times when a single personality gathers up the temperament of an epoch or a movement and by simply existing ensures its fulfilment. It would be difficult to lay down the precise services which made the existence of Danton necessary for the success of the Revolution. There are certain things he did, and no man else could have done, which compelled destiny; there are certain things he said which made France mad with resolution and courage. These words, these doings ring through the ages.”  Value-oriented Education Series.