Visionaries in opposition: Napoleon, Talleyrand, and the future of France
Trinity College, Hartford Connecticut, 2017
Abstract
This thesis is a study of the relationship between Napoleon and Talleyrand, the foreign minister. It examines their relationship from the vantage point of three key events: the coup of 18 Brumaire, the Strasbourg memorandum, and Talleyrand's resignation. Ultimately, this study finds that their relationship was troubled, and the falling out occurred because of a difference in their goals. Napoleon wanted to build an empire. Talleyrand wanted to reintegrate France into the system of European powers.