Interpretations of the Code Napoleon
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A worksheet exploring different historical interpretations of Napoleon's Code Napoleon, encouraging students to compare views and evaluate their validity.
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Interpretations of the Code Napoleon
Untitled Worksheet
Interpretations of the Code Napoleon
Historian A: David Thomson – Economic Perspective "David Thomson argues that the Code Napoleon was primarily an economic reform. He emphasizes its role in standardizing laws across France, promoting property rights, and encouraging economic growth. Thomson believes that the Code helped create a more stable economic environment, which facilitated trade and investment. He highlights that these legal reforms contributed significantly to the modernization of France's economy and laid foundations for future economic development. Overall, Thomson views the Code as a crucial step towards economic stability and progress." **
Historian B: Marie-Claire Dupont – Social Perspective "Marie-Claire Dupont contends that the Code Napoleon had a profound social impact. She stresses that it reinforced hierarchical structures, limited women's rights, and maintained social inequalities. She argues that rather than promoting social progress, the Code preserved traditional social orders and suppressed revolutionary ideals of equality. Dupont views the Code as a tool for consolidating Napoleon’s power by controlling social relations and maintaining the status quo, which ultimately hindered social mobility and reform."
Question 1
Summarize each historian's view on the impact of the Code Napoleon. (4 marks)
Question 2
Compare the reasons why the two historians have different perspectives on the impact of the Code Napoleon. (4 marks)
Question 3
Evaluate which historian's interpretation you find more convincing and justify your choice. (6 marks)
Question 4
Outline the main differences between the two historians' views using three points. (3 marks)
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Details
- Created
- 1/1/2026
- Updated
- 1/1/2026
- Type
- worksheet