
The opening thrusts listeners into the charged atmosphere of the French Constituent Assembly on a winter evening in 1848. As the hall dimly glows under hanging lamps, the deputies gather to witness the historic proclamation of a new president—Charles‑Louis‑Napoléon Bonaparte, a slender figure in black whose nervous demeanor belies the weight of the moment. The narrative captures the blend of anticipation and unease that ripples through the chamber, hinting at the complex legacy of a man whose lineage and ambitions stir both hope and suspicion.
From the bustling corridors to the solemn tribune, the story paints a vivid portrait of a nation poised on the brink of change. It introduces the key players—veteran politicians, skeptical generals, and fervent supporters—each offering their own perspective on the young candidate’s past exploits and future promise. Listeners are drawn into the early drama of power, ideology, and personal destiny, setting the stage for the unfolding saga of a leader who will shape France’s path in the years to come.
Language
fr
Duration
~7 hours (419K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2007-07-11
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1802–1885
A giant of French literature, he gave the world sweeping stories of justice, mercy, love, and revolt. Best known for Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, he wrote with the emotional force of a poet and the social conscience of a reformer.
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