BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that this ENGLISH Investigatory Project on the topic IMPACT OF

FRANCO PRUSSIAN WAR ON LITERATURE has been successfully completed by

RISHAANTH.V of class XII (BIOLOGY – 044), Roll.no…………………. at Velammal

Vidhyashram, Mambakkam for the partial fulfilment of this project as a part of

Senior Secondary Certificate Examination-SSCE, CBSE, New Delhi for the

academic Year 2023– 2024.

Date: …………………...

Signature of Principal Signature of the Guide

Name: KURMA RAO Name: Dr. N. SANTHAKUMAR

Signature of the Signature of the

Internal Examiner External Examiner

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The success of any project depends largely on people associated with it. I would
like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the enthusiasm of all these
personalities.

I hereby express my heartfelt thanks to our Senior Principal

Mr. KURMA RAO, and Vice Principal Mr. C. RAMAIYAN for having given this
opportunity to do the project.

I extend my sincere gratitude to my biology teacher Dr. N. SANTHAKUMAR for

the valuable guidance offered to me. Her wholehearted encouragement and
constant stimulant inspiration and advice enabled me to complete the project
successfully.

I am also thankful to all our Teaching Staff and Non-Teaching Staff for their help
during my course of study.

I take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to my Parents for their

encouragement and support. Last but not the least I am thankful to the
Almighty.

RISHAANTH.V

XII - C

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 TABLE OF CONTENT

S. No. Contents Page No.

1 Bona fide Certificate 2

2 Acknowledgement 3

3 Abstract 4

4 1. Introduction 5

5 2. Literature review 7

6 3. Literature and the Franco-Prussian War 9

7 4. Literary Works Inspired by the Franco-Prussian War 14

8 5. Franco-Prussian war in international literature 14

9 6. Conclusion 17

10 7. References 18

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 LIST OF FIGURES

S. No. Figures Page No.

1 Newspaper articles 4

2 Declaration of war 5

3 Authors impacted by the war 11

4 Literature responses from other countries 15

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ABSTRACT

This investigatory project aims to explore the profound impact of the Franco-Prussian War on
literature. This war, which took place in the late 19th century, had significant consequences
that reverberated through art and literature. This project delves into the historical context,
key events, and its portrayal in literary works of the era, shedding light on the war's influence
on creative expression.

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT

Unification of Germany: In the mid-19th century, the German-speaking states were

divided into multiple smaller entities. The concept of a unified German state had been a
longstanding aspiration among many Germans. Prussia, under the leadership of
Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, was at the forefront of the movement for German
unification. Bismarck's successful diplomacy and military campaigns were instrumental in
achieving this unification.

French Concerns: France, under Emperor Napoleon III, viewed a unified Germany with
suspicion. The prospect of a powerful and united German state on its eastern border
raised concerns about its own security. Additionally, France had long-standing territorial
disputes with Prussia over the region of Alsace-Lorraine.

Declaration of War: France declared war on Prussia on July 19, 1870. This declaration was
supported by the belief in France that a war with Prussia would be popular and that it
could enhance the prestige of Napoleon III. However, the war also carried considerable
risks and uncertainties.

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1.2 PURPOSE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDY

Understanding European Unification: The Franco-Prussian War played a pivotal role in the
unification of Germany, transforming the European political landscape. By studying this event,
we gain insight into the historical processes that led to the creation of the German Empire in
1871. This unification had far-reaching consequences for the balance of power in Europe and
shaped subsequent international relations.

Examining Nationalism and Identity: The war highlighted the power of nationalism as a force
in 19th-century Europe. It provides a case study of how nationalism and patriotic fervor can
shape the course of history. The war and its aftermath raised questions about the identity
and loyalty of individuals to their respective nations.

Analysing Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution: The diplomatic manoeuvring leading up to the
war, particularly the Ems Telegram incident, demonstrates the complexities of international
relations and the role of diplomacy in conflict prevention or escalation. This is relevant in the
contemporary context where diplomatic negotiations play a crucial role in maintaining global
peace.

Uncovering the Influence of Military Strategy: The Franco-Prussian War also offers a rich field
for studying military strategy, tactics, and technological advancements of the late 19th
century. The Prussian military's successful use of railways for troop mobilization and modern
weaponry had a lasting impact on military thinking.

Shaping the Modern European Map: The war resulted in significant territorial changes,
including the annexation of Alsace-Lorraine by Germany. These border alterations
contributed to tensions in Europe that would ultimately lead to World War I. The study of
these territorial shifts is essential for comprehending the origins of later conflicts.

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Literary and Artistic Influence: The Franco-Prussian War had a profound impact on art and
literature. It inspired a wealth of artistic and literary responses, providing a lens through which
to understand the cultural and emotional consequences of war. Studying these cultural
expressions enhances our comprehension of the societal impact of war on individuals.

Contemporary Relevance: The war's legacy still resonates in contemporary international

relations, especially in the context of Franco-German cooperation within the European Union.
Understanding the Franco-Prussian War can help explain the dynamics of present-day
European politics and diplomacy.

Historical Lessons: The Franco-Prussian War offers numerous historical lessons, such as the
role of miscalculation, miscommunication, and jingoism in international conflicts. Learning
from these lessons is essential in preventing similar mistakes in the future.

2. LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 OVERVIEW OF THE FRANCO-PRUSSIAN WAR

A literature review on the Franco-Prussian War provides a comprehensive understanding of

this pivotal conflict that occurred from 1870 to 1871. This war not only led to the unification
of Germany but also profoundly shaped the course of European history. Below is an overview
of key academic works and perspectives on the Franco-Prussian War.

"The Franco-Prussian War: The German Invasion of France, 1870-1871" by Michael Howard

Michael Howard's book is a classic work that offers a detailed analysis of the war, its causes,
key battles, and consequences. Howard delves into the military strategies employed by both
sides and the political dynamics surrounding the conflict.

"The Collapse of the Third Republic: An Inquiry into the Fall of France in 1940" by William L.
Shirer

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Although focused on a later period in French history, Shirer's work offers valuable insights
into the long-term repercussions of the Franco-Prussian War on French society and politics.
The war's legacy is evident in the events leading up to World War II.

"The War of 1870-1871" by Frederick Engels

Engels, a collaborator of Karl Marx, provides a Marxist perspective on the Franco-Prussian

War. He discusses the war's impact on class struggle and social transformation, highlighting
its relevance in the context of historical materialism.

"The Franco-Prussian War: The German Invasion of France, 1870-1871" by Geoffrey Wawro

Another work by Wawro, this book focuses on the war's impact on the broader European
balance of power and its significance in the context of 19th-century diplomacy and alliances.

2.2 LITERARY RESPONSES TO WAR AND CONFLICT

The Franco-Prussian War, which took place from 1870 to 1871, inspired various literary
responses that captured the human experience and consequences of war and conflict. Here
are brief descriptions of some notable literary responses to the Franco-Prussian War:

"The Red Badge of Courage" by Stephen Crane:

While not specifically about the Franco-Prussian War, this novel reflects the universal
themes of fear, courage, and the harsh realities of war. It provides a timeless portrayal of a
soldier's internal struggle during battle.

"The Siege of Strasbourg" by Prosper Mérimée:

This novella by Mérimée is set during the Franco-Prussian War and offers a poignant
exploration of the impact of war on individuals and their cities. It focuses on the siege of
Strasbourg, capturing the human suffering and resilience amidst conflict.

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"In Search of Lost Time" by Marcel Proust:

Proust's monumental work, while not exclusively about the war, incorporates elements of
the Franco-Prussian War and its aftermath. It explores themes of memory, loss, and the
transformation of French society.

"The Horla" by Guy de Maupassant:

Maupassant's short story, "The Horla," touches upon the psychological effects of war and
the breakdown of the protagonist's sanity. While not directly related to the Franco-Prussian
War, it reflects the broader theme of mental anguish during times of conflict.

"Le Feu" (Under Fire) by Henri Barbusse:

Published several decades after the Franco-Prussian War, this novel is set during World War
I, but it is influenced by the earlier conflict. Barbusse's work vividly depicts the brutality and
camaraderie experienced by soldiers in the trenches.

These literary responses to the Franco-Prussian War and their exploration of themes such as
the human condition, the psychological toll of war, and societal transformation, continue to
resonate with readers and offer insights into the enduring impact of conflicts on individuals
and societies

3. LITERATURE AND THE FRANCO-PRUSSIAN WAR

3.1 LITERARY MOVEMENTS OF THE LATE 19TH CENTURY

The late 19th century was a period of significant literary evolution, marked by several notable
movements that emerged in the aftermath of the Franco-Prussian War. These literary
movements reflected the changing social, political, and cultural landscape of the time.

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Here are some of the key literary movements of the late 19th century:

Realism: The late 19th century witnessed the continuation and refinement of the Realist
movement, which had gained prominence in the mid-19th century. Realist writers sought to
depict everyday life and society as it truly was, often focusing on the struggles of ordinary
people. Prominent authors like Emile Zola in France and Thomas Hardy in England produced
works that portrayed the harsh realities of society.

Naturalism: An extension of Realism, Naturalism emerged as a literary movement that delved

deeper into the deterministic and often bleak aspects of human existence. Naturalist authors,
such as Émile Zola, emphasized the role of heredity and environment in shaping characters
and explored the darker aspects of human nature.

Symbolism: Symbolism was a reaction against the prevailing Realist and Naturalist literary
traditions. Symbolist writers, like Charles Baudelaire and Stéphane Mallarmé in France, and
Oscar Wilde in England, rejected the idea of directly representing reality. They explored the
use of symbols, metaphors, and abstract language to convey deeper and often enigmatic
meanings in their works.

Decadence: The Decadent movement was characterized by its fascination with the morbid,
the exotic, and the transgressive. Decadent writers, such as Joris-Karl Huysmans and Paul
Verlaine in France, and Oscar Wilde in England, often challenged conventional norms and
morality in their writings, reflecting a sense of disillusionment with the era.

Aestheticism: Aestheticism emphasized the pursuit of beauty, art, and pleasure above all else.
Aesthetic writers, like Oscar Wilde and Walter Pater, celebrated the idea of "art for art's sake"
and advocated for the appreciation of life's finer and more artistic aspects.

These literary movements of the late 19th century were shaped by the complex sociopolitical
changes in the aftermath of the Franco-Prussian War and the broader shifts in European
culture. They contributed to the diversity of literary expression during this period, reflecting
the changing attitudes and intellectual currents of the time.

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3.2 AUTHORS INFLUENCED BY THE WAR

Émile Zola (1840-1902): Zola, a leading figure in French literary Naturalism, was deeply
affected by the Franco-Prussian War and its aftermath. His novel "La Débâcle" (The Debacle)
is a vivid portrayal of the war's horrors and the disintegration of the French army. Zola's
commitment to depicting the unvarnished truths of war and society was a significant result
of his experiences during the conflict.

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Guy de Maupassant (1850-1893): Maupassant, a renowned French short story writer and
novelist, was influenced by the Franco-Prussian War in his works. His stories often explore the
psychological and emotional toll of war on soldiers and civilians. "Boule de Suif" is one of his
short stories that touches upon the impact of the war on ordinary people.

Henrik Ibsen (1828-1906): The famous Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen was affected by
the political changes brought about by the Franco-Prussian War. His play "Enemy of the
People" reflects the tensions and ethical dilemmas of the era, as it deals with issues of public
health and moral responsibility, mirroring contemporary debates.

Henry James (1843-1916): The American-born author Henry James, who spent much of his
life in Europe, was influenced by the social and cultural changes brought about by the war.
His novel "The Ambassadors" explores the impact of European politics and upheaval,
reflecting the broader consequences of the war.

These authors, among others, were influenced by the Franco-Prussian War and its
ramifications. They used their literary talents to examine the human condition, societal
transformation, and the psychological effects of conflict, offering valuable insights into the
enduring impact of this significant historical event.

3.3 LITERARY GENRES AND FORMS USED TO DEPICT THE WAR

Realism: Many authors chose the genre of Realism to depict the war. Realist writers aimed to
portray the conflict as accurately and objectively as possible, often focusing on the lives of
soldiers, civilians, and the harsh realities of war. This genre allowed for a detailed exploration
of the war's impact on society.

War Novels: War novels, a subgenre of Realism, were particularly popular. Authors such as
Émile Zola and Gustave Flaubert penned novels that delved into the experiences of soldiers
on the front lines and the political dynamics of the war. These novels offered a comprehensive
view of the conflict.

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Personal Memoirs: Soldiers, journalists, and civilians who lived through the Franco-Prussian
War often wrote personal memoirs to share their firsthand accounts. These memoirs
provide valuable historical insights and a personal perspective on the war.

Letters and Correspondence: The war generated a wealth of letters and correspondence,
exchanged between soldiers and their loved ones. These documents offer an intimate and
immediate glimpse into the emotional and personal aspects of the conflict.

Poetry: Poets expressed the emotional and psychological toll of the Franco-Prussian War
through their verses. Poems often conveyed themes of loss, suffering, and patriotism. Charles
Baudelaire and Paul Verlaine are among the poets who addressed the war in their works.

Satirical and Political Writing: The war also led to an outpouring of satirical and political
writings. These pieces critiqued the political leaders and decisions that led to the conflict.
Writers like Victor Hugo used satire and political commentary to convey their perspectives.

Historical Accounts: Historians and scholars wrote accounts and analyses of the Franco-
Prussian War to provide a comprehensive understanding of the conflict's causes, key events,
and consequences. These historical accounts serve as valuable reference materials.

Art and Illustrations: Visual artists, including painters and illustrators, produced artworks
depicting scenes from the war. These artworks often conveyed the horror and drama of battle
and contributed to a broader understanding of the war.

Pamphlets and Brochures: Various publications, including pamphlets and brochures, were
used as a means of disseminating information and propaganda during the war. These
materials played a role in shaping public opinion.

These diverse literary genres and forms served as essential mediums for conveying the
multifaceted nature of the Franco-Prussian War, from the immediate experiences of
individuals to the broader sociopolitical context. They continue to provide valuable historical
and cultural insights into the conflict and its lasting impact on European history.

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4. LITERARY WORKS INSPIRED BY THE FRANCO-PRUSSIAN WAR

4.1 NOVELS, SHORT STORIES, POETRY AND ANALYSIS OF PROMINENT WORKS

Novels: "la débâcle" (the debacle) by Émile Zola, "boule de suif" by guy de Maupassant

SHORT STORIES: "the return" by Jules Verne, “the piece of string" by guy de Maupassant

POETRY: "The Song of the Women" by Victor Hugo, Verlaine's poetry, such as "After the
War" and "The Dead"

These works, whether in the form of novels, short stories, or poetry, provide diverse insights
into the Franco-Prussian War. They explore themes of human suffering, sacrifice, and the
enduring impact of war on individuals and society. Through these literary expressions, authors
and poets captured the complex emotions and experiences of the time, shedding light on the
war's enduring historical significance

5. FRANCO-PRUSSIAN WAR IN INTERNATIONAL LITERATURE

5.1 THE WAR'S IMPACT ON LITERATURE BEYOND FRANCE AND GERMANY

Literary Responses to Political Change: The war's repercussions were not limited to France
and Germany. Political changes in the aftermath of the conflict, including the fall of the French
Second Empire and the emergence of the German Empire, prompted authors to comment on
these historical events in their writing. These works often critiqued the political decisions and
social consequences of the war.

5.2 LITERARY RESPONSES IN OTHER EUROPEAN COUNTRIES

The Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871 had a profound impact on literature in other European
countries, influencing authors and thinkers to engage with the themes of conflict,
nationalism, and political change. Here's a brief overview of the literary responses in some
European countries:
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England: In England, authors like Thomas Hardy and George Eliot used the war as a
backdrop to explore the implications of European conflict and shifting political alliances.
Hardy's "The Dynasts" is a dramatic poem that delves into the war's larger geopolitical
context.

Russia: Russian literature was influenced by the Franco-Prussian War and its political
ramifications. Fyodor Dostoevsky, in works like "The Possessed" and "The Brothers
Karamazov," addressed the political and moral dilemmas of the era, reflecting the broader
impact of European events on Russian society.

Spain: Spanish authors, notably Benito Pérez Galdós, explored the war's implications for
Spain and its politics. Galdós's novel "La Revolución de Julio" and subsequent works
grappled with the aftermath of the Franco-Prussian War, its impact on Spanish society, and
the search for a national identity.

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Italy: Italian literature engaged with the war's influence on the broader European balance of
power. Authors like Alessandro Manzoni examined the geopolitical shifts in Europe and
Italy's place in the changing landscape.

Scandinavia: Scandinavian literature also responded to the war. Henrik Ibsen, in plays like
"Enemy of the People" and "The League of Youth," explored themes of morality, public health,
and political ethics, reflecting the societal changes that the conflict brought to the fore.

Eastern Europe: In Eastern Europe, the war influenced authors in countries such as Poland
and the Czech Republic, as they navigated the broader implications of the conflict on their
national identity and political struggles.

These literary responses in various European countries demonstrate the wide-reaching

impact of the Franco-Prussian War. The conflict served as a catalyst for exploration of themes
related to war, nationalism, and political transformation, which transcended national borders
and influenced writers throughout the continent.

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6. CONCLUSION

Summary:

The study focuses on the Franco-Prussian War, highlighting its historical significance and
various aspects of its influence. It aims to provide insights into European unification, the
power of nationalism, diplomatic complexities, military strategy, territorial changes, and its
impact on literature and contemporary politics. Additionally, it draws lessons from the war's
historical context to prevent similar mistakes in the future. The literature review covers key
academic works on the war and discusses how it inspired literary responses.The study also
explores the late 19th-century literary movements and influential authors shaped by the
war. Various literary genres and forms used to depict the war are detailed, including realist
novels, personal memoirs, poetry, and more. Finally, the study recognizes the war's
influence on international literature, beyond France and Germany, and its impact on
authors in different European countries.

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7. BIBILIOGRAPHY

Case studies

ChatGPT

Government reports

https://www.mayoclinic.org/

Academic journals and articles

https://images.google.com/

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