From the book
The Gods Are Athirst
Anatole France · Diotimos Editions · 2026
Browse this book’s lexicon →Meaning
Phrase.
Ami du peuple is the identifying political title attached to Marat. Gamelin blesses the tribunal for acquitting the Friend of the People and restoring him to the Convention. The title claims a relationship to the public, but its appearance in Gamelin’s admiration does not certify that every act attributed to Marat is beneficent. The young soldier’s later accusation that the Friend of the People is idle shows that the revered title can remain in use while his conduct is attacked.
Places to read
- Chapter IV, paragraph 38Frenchl’Ami du peuple: Marat under his political title. The sentence narrates Gamelin’s gratitude for the acquittal.
- Chapter V, paragraph 38Frenchaccusait l’Ami du peuple d’indolence: the title used inside criticism. The young soldier calls for more action against federalists.