The Philosopher Napoleon III THE INFLUENCE OF FICHTE AND HEGEL IN THE WRITINGS OF THE FRENCH EMPEROR

Abstract

Napoleon III and his political career have been closely studied by many historians. Remarkably, his own publications have received little attention from those who tried to understand Napoleon III. In his writings, Napoleon III revealed a philosophical view, determining his view on the world, and forming the basis for his political ambitions, actions and achievements. Being raised and educated in Augsburg, the contemporary German philosophers Fichte and Hegel are strongly present in Napoleon III’s view, as their ideas stood central in the German intellectual society during the time that Napoleon III was educated there. His ideas on history, modernity and nationality are extremely similar to those of Fichte and Hegel, as is his use of terminology. Comparing the work of these German philosophers and Napoleon III’s own publications, enables us to understand his philosophical view, which is fundamental to fully understand his motivations and actions during his twenty years as a ruler.