Citizens: A Chronicle of the French Revolution by Simon Schama
Citizens: A Chronicle of the French Revolution by Simon Schama presents a detailed social and cultural history of the Revolution and the years leading up to it. Its 848-page length suits readers seeking an extensive narrative rather than a brief overview.
At a glance
- The listing describes an account of the Revolution’s social and cultural currents, alongside events in the decades preceding it.
- At 848 pages, this is an extended treatment rather than a short introduction.
- Customer feedback highlights detailed coverage and writing, including an appreciation for narrative that retains an overall perspective.
Reference price: £20.00
Price checked: 12 Nov 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- Broad narrative scope encompasses the French Revolution and the period leading up to it.
- The substantial page count offers room for detailed historical coverage.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | Penguin |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 5 Aug. 2004 |
| Edition | 1st |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 848 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0141017279 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0141017273 |
| Weight listed | 608 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13 x 3.8 x 19.8 cm |
What to know before buying
- The listing describes extensive coverage, so readers seeking a short introduction may find the length more than they need.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers looking for a detailed narrative history of the French Revolution.
- Those interested in social and cultural context as well as political events.
Less suited to
- Readers who specifically want a concise introduction or a quick reference.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
66% 66% - 4 stars
21% 21% - 3 stars
9% 9% - 2 stars
2% 2% - 1 star
2% 2%
Customer feedback praises the writing, detail and informative account, with some noting that it keeps a broad overview within its narrative. This is relevant for readers weighing a substantial historical account against a short survey. The feedback also describes it as worth the price, while aggregate ratings indicate that experiences are not uniformly positive. These comments reflect reported customer perceptions, not a guarantee of fit for every reader.
Positive themes
- Customer feedback highlights the writing, detailed content and informative treatment.
- Some readers appreciate that the narrative maintains an overall perspective.
Frequently asked questions
What period does Citizens cover?
The listing describes the French Revolution and the decades leading up to it, with social and cultural history alongside the narrative.
Is this a short introduction to the French Revolution?
No. The listing gives a print length of 848 pages, making it an extensive history rather than a brief introduction.
What language and edition are listed?
The product details list an English-language first edition.
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