Napoleon the Little

Key themes and ideas presented in Napoleon the Little include: Satire of Napoleon III: The pamphlet is a biting and satirical portrayal of Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte (Napoleon III) who had orchestrated a coup détat in 1851 and eventually declared himself Emperor of the French. Hugo uses satire to criticize Napoleon IIIs autocratic tendencies his suppression of democratic institutions and his manipulation of power. Authoritarianism: Hugo criticizes Napoleon IIIs consolidation of power comparing his actions to those of his uncle Napoleon Bonaparte who became Emperor of the French in the early 19th century. Erosion of Liberty: The pamphlet warns of the erosion of civil liberties and democratic principles under Napoleon IIIs rule portraying him as a threat to the freedoms won through the French Revolution. Personification of Napoleon III: Hugo personifies Napoleon III as a small insignificant figure who clings to power through deceit and manipulation. The title Napoleon the Little reflects this portrayal.