Primary Source

Son of Saint–Louis Going Up to Heaven . . .

Image of King Louis XVI before his execution

Annotation

Many scholars would argue that Louis XVI’s finest moment came from his bravery at his execution. Even when he was forbidden from saying a last few words to those gathered to see him executed, he remained unflinching, retaining his composure. Here one can see the confessor, Edgeworth de Firmont, selected by Louis himself. The executioner is a member of the Sanson family, well–known for their efficiency. The guillotine awaits.

Credits

Included as part of the LIBERTY, EQUALITY, FRATERNITY: EXPLORING THE FRENCH REVOLUTION project
https://revolution.chnm.org/d/179

How to Cite This Source

"Son of Saint–Louis Going Up to Heaven . . .," in World History Commons, https://worldhistorycommons.org/son-saint-louis-going-heaven [accessed April 19, 2024]