Mémoires de Napoléon Ier: Le Mémorial de Ste-Hélène par le Comte de Las Cases Tome 1

Mémoires de Napoléon Ier: Le Mémorial de Ste-Hélène par le Comte de Las Cases Tome 1 is the first volume of a famous memoir by Emmanuel de Las Cases, which chronicles his time in exile with Napoleon Bonaparte on the island of Saint Helena. Published posthumously, this work is not an autobiography of Napoleon himself but rather a daily record of his thoughts, conversations, and reflections as dictated to Las Cases. The book is considered a foundational text of the Napoleonic legend, as it presented Napoleon's version of events and his legacy to the world.

Summary

The book, also known as Le Mémorial de Sainte-Hélène (The Memorial of Saint Helena), documents Napoleon's final years of exile from 1815 until Las Cases' departure from the island in late 1816. Las Cases recorded Napoleon's daily life and conversations, covering topics from his military campaigns and political career to his philosophical views and private life. Napoleon used this opportunity to craft his own historical narrative, portraying himself as a tragic hero and a champion of the French Revolution's ideals.

About the Author

Emmanuel-Augustin-Dieudonné-Joseph, comte de Las Cases (1766–1842), was a French historian, politician, and nobleman. After initially opposing Napoleon during the French Revolution, he eventually became a loyal follower and served in his court. He volunteered to accompany Napoleon to Saint Helena, where he acted as his secretary and chronicler. Las Cases' detailed and highly sympathetic account of Napoleon's exile was immensely successful, making him wealthy and a key figure in the rise of Bonapartism in the 19th century.