Danton's Death, George Büchner

photo Danton's Death Weichert 1930 Box92.jpg

Title

Danton's Death, George Büchner

Description

Written by Büchner in 1835 but not staged until 1902, Danton's Death follows the story of Georges Danton, a leader of the French Revolution, during the lull between the first and second terrors. The play depicts Georges Danton who created the office of the Revolutionary Tribunal as a strong arm for the Revolutionary Government. With this, to be accused of anything real or imagined was to be condemned to death without trial, proofs, evidence or witnesses. Within months he knew this power was a terrible mistake and fought to have it ended. Robespierre stopped him and used the Tribunal to have Danton and all opposition killed, consolidate his power and slaughter uncounted thousands of French men, women, and children. Ultimately he followed Danton to the guillotine. Witnesses describe Danton as dying bravely comforting other innocents executed with him.

Source

RG8

Publisher

YIVO Institute for Jewish Research

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Citation

“Danton's Death, George Büchner,” YIVO Online Exhibitions, accessed May 9, 2025, https://ataleoftwomuseums.yivo.org/items/show/2177.

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