Traumatic Politics

Traumatic Politics: The Deputies and the King in the Early French Revolution is a scholarly work of history and political culture. Volume 1 of this study examines the early stages of the French Revolution, specifically focusing on the relationship between Louis XVI and the first representative assembly. Barry M. Shapiro applies a psychological lens to analyze why the Constituent Assembly failed to reach a workable accommodation with the French monarchy during this volatile period.

This history book argues that the political decisions of the assembly were driven by traumatic reactions to threats faced in the summer of 1789. By exploring patterns of traumatic repetition and denial, the text challenges traditional views on the desacralization of the king. It expands the application of trauma theory within French history, moving beyond war and genocide to show how mild trauma influenced the legislators of the revolution.