Family Quote by Hilary Mantel
““Law of Suspects. Suspects are those: who have in any way aided tyranny (royal tyranny, Brissotin tyranny...); who cannot show that they have performed their civic duties; who do not starve, and yet have no visible means of support; who have been refused certificates of citizenship by their Sections; who have been removed from public office by the Convention or its representatives; who belong to an aristocratic family, and have not given proof of constant and extraordinary revolutionary fervor; or who have emigrated.””
About This Quote
The quote lists criteria for labeling individuals as enemies of the revolution, emphasizing suspicion toward those lacking visible support, civic proof, or revolutionary zeal.
In simple terms: It warns that anyone not clearly supporting the cause may be deemed a suspect.
Key Takeaway
Question loyalty and transparency in political movements.
Themes
politics
trust
revolution
surveillance
social control
Mood
cautious
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
political
When to use this quote
- government purges
- public office removals
- citizen vetting
- social ostracism
Key Concepts
citizen loyalty
political legitimacy
class suspicion
revolutionary zeal
emigration
Questions to Reflect On
- How do societies balance security with individual rights?
- What safeguards prevent abuse of suspicion?
A Different Perspective
Such broad suspicion can suppress dissent and stifle legitimate critique.
