Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A key figure in the French Revolution: Robespierre refers to Maximilien Robespierre, a French lawyer and politician who was one of the most influential and controversial leaders during the French Revolution.
   • Architect of the Reign of Terror: He is primarily known for his central role in the Committee of Public Safety and for promoting the period of mass executions known as the Reign of Terror.
   • A symbol of revolutionary zeal and tyranny: His name is often used to represent the ideals of radical republicanism, as well as the potential for revolutionary movements to descend into violent authoritarianism.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • Robespierre's speeches were powerful calls for virtue and terror.
  • Historians continue to debate the legacy of Robespierre.
  • The fall of Robespierre marked the end of the most radical phase of the revolution.

Advanced Usage

• "to be a Robespierre": used metaphorically to describe someone who is an uncompromising, radical reformer or a puritanical figure willing to use severe measures to achieve ideological goals.
  • In his ruthless pursuit of efficiency, the new manager was called a Robespierre by the staff.

Variants and Related Words

• Robespierrist (noun): A supporter or follower of Robespierre and his policies.
  • The Robespierrists were purged after his execution.
• Robespierrian (adjective): Pertaining to or characteristic of Robespierre or his policies.
  • The committee adopted a Robespierrian approach to dealing with dissent.

Synonyms

• Revolutionary leader
• Jacobin (specifically refers to a member of the political club he led, often used synonymously with his supporters)

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Reign of Terror: The period (1793-1794) during the French Revolution for which Robespierre is most infamous.
• Committee of Public Safety: The executive body governing France, which Robespierre dominated.
• The Incorruptible: A nickname given to Robespierre, highlighting his reputation for personal austerity and dedication to his revolutionary principles.
• Cult of the Supreme Being: The deistic state religion established by Robespierre in 1794.

Noun

1. French revolutionary; leader of the Jacobins and architect of the Reign of Terror; was himself executed in a coup d'etat (1758-1794)