La mentalité révolutionnaire

Abstract

This paper aims at a definition of the concept of Revolutionary Mentality in the context of the French Revolution. Reflection on G. Lefebvre’s formula, that shows it torn between «Hope and Fear», it starts by analysing motions such as mob, violence and fear, to enlighten, in counterpoint, a system of positivist values — Freedom, Equality, Justice, not only proclaimed but experienced, around which the portrait of the republican «homo novus» is built. Then, it concerns the structuring and spreading of this sensibility through the press, clubs and the «on the spot» politicizing ways of the period.