Napoleon and War and Peace: An Unfounded Tradition Debunked

Many popular historical stories often contain inaccuracies. One such tale is the idea that Napoleon Bonaparte read War and Peace after his defeat at Waterloo. This article aims to debunk this myth, providing a detailed historical context and analysis.

The Myth and Its Roots

Often recounted in discussions about the famous French military leader, the belief that Napoleon read War and Peace after his defeat at Waterloo is a well-circulated but ultimately false story. The tradition traces back to a misunderstanding of historical facts and a series of anecdotes that have taken on a life of their own over time.

Historical Context

War and Peace, written by the renowned Russian author Leo Tolstoy, began its serialization in 1865. Napoleonic France, on the other hand, ceased to exist in 1815 after the defeat at Waterloo, which marked the end of the Napoleonic Empire. Therefore, Napoleon Bonaparte, who died in 1821, could not have possibly read War and Peace, as the book's publication came almost half a century after his death.

The Origins of the Legend

The confusion around this story likely stems from the fact that Tolstoy's inspiration for War and Peace drew on the experiences and history of the Napoleonic era. Moreover, the names of two famous literary figures, Alexander Pushkin and Alexander Solzhenitsyn, have been interwoven into some versions of the tale, adding to its complexity and longevity as a legend.

The Role of Pushkin and Solzhenitsyn

Alexander Pushkin, a significant Russian poet and novelist, did live long enough to read War and Peace. However, this does not mean that Napoleon did the same. Pushkin, who died in 1837, was deeply involved in the literary world of his time and certainly had the opportunity to read Tolstoy's masterpiece. On the other hand, Alexander Solzhenitsyn, born in 1918, wrote extensively about the history of Russia and the experiences of the Soviet Union. The confusion around these names seems to add to the complexity of the misunderstanding.

Historical Figures' Engagement with Literature

Both historical and contemporary figures often engaged with literature. For example, Napoleon was known to read philosophical and historical works such as Leo Patroclus by Jean-Fran?ois Marsay, works by Mme. de Sta?l, and other less well-known authors. While these works did not include Tolstoy, Napoleon's interest in literature is well-documented.

Contemporary Research and Scholars' Views

Modern scholars and researchers meticulously examine the biographies and letters of historical figures to ensure the accuracy of events and literary engagements. In the case of Napoleon, extensive research has debunked many myths and legends, including the one about reading War and Peace. Contemporary biographers of Napoleon, such as Andrew Robert Cobb and Robert Harvey, provide a thorough and accurate portrayal of the Emperor's life and activities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the belief that Napoleon Bonaparte read War and Peace after his defeat at Waterloo is a persistent but unsubstantiated legend. This myth continues to persist due to the complex interweaving of historical and literary figures and the passage of time. Napoleonic France ended in 1815, and the book became available only in 1865. Given these facts, it is impossible for Napoleon to have read the work, as he had passed away over four decades earlier. Historical research and literature provide the context to unravel such myths and ensure that the historical record remains accurate.