Contextualization

The French Revolution was a period of intense political and social upheaval in France that lasted from 1789 to 1799 and had significant impacts on world history. It is far from being just an episode in a history book. This tumultuous period shaped the modern world, setting precedents for democracy, human rights, and even nationalism. In this project, you will be tasked with delving into the heart of this revolution, exploring two key concepts: The origin and cause of the French Revolution and the influence of the bourgeoisie and the working classes in this historical event.

Introduction

During the French Revolution, the absolutist monarchy that had ruled France for centuries collapsed in just three years. French society underwent an epic transformation as feudal privileges were abolished and human and citizen rights were proclaimed. The origins of this revolution, however, are rooted in the complex interactions between the social and political order of the time, the economy, the growing population, and the emerging Enlightenment ideas that challenged the status quo.

The participation of the bourgeoisie and the working classes was crucial in this process. Both contributed to the fall of the monarchy and the formation of a republic. The bourgeoisie, a social class that was becoming increasingly influential due to its role in the economy, was resentful of its lower political status and sought reforms that would give them more power. On the other hand, the working classes, who made up a large part of the French population, were struggling with hunger and poverty, calling for radical changes to improve their living conditions.

Activity

Activity Title: "French Revolution: Causes and Effects"

Project Objective

This project aims to use creativity and collaboration among groups of 3 to 5 students to create a theatrical performance that explores the origins and causes of the French Revolution, as well as the role of the bourgeoisie and the working classes in this process.

Detailed Project Description

Students will be divided into groups of 3 to 5 people. Each group will be challenged to create a theatrical performance that represents the most significant events and characters during the period of the French Revolution, focusing on its causes and effects. The play must include clear references to the two identified key concepts: the origins and causes of the French Revolution and the influence of the bourgeoisie and the working classes.

Required Materials

The materials needed for the performance of this project are:

• History books and online resources (for research)
• Paper, pen, and cardboard (for the script and set)
• Costumes and props (for the performance)
• Camera or smartphone (for filming the performance)

Detailed Step-by-Step for Activity Execution

1. Each group should start by conducting detailed research on the French Revolution, focusing on the origins and causes, as well as the roles of the bourgeoisie and the working classes.

2. Once the research is complete, the group should discuss and agree on the events and characters that will be included in the performance. They should then begin writing the script for the play.

3. With the script complete, the group should start rehearsing their performance. They should also gather or create the costumes and props needed.

4. When the play is ready, the group should film it. The play should last between 10 and 15 minutes.

5. After filming, the group should review the recording and make any necessary edits for clarity and quality.

6. Finally, the group should write a detailed report on the project. The report should include the following topics: Introduction, Development, Conclusions, and Bibliography.

• In the Introduction, students should contextualize the French Revolution, its relevance in the real world, and the project's objective.
• In the Development, students should detail how they conducted their research, explain the theory behind the project's two main concepts, describe the creation and execution of their performance, and present and discuss the results obtained.
• In the Conclusions, students should summarize what they learned, the challenges they faced and how they overcame them, and the conclusions they drew from the project.
• In the Bibliography, students should list all the sources they used in their research and for the creation of their performance.

The total duration of the project will be one month from the start date. The expected time per student will be between 5 to 10 hours, spread throughout the month.

Project Deliverables

Upon completion of the project, each group must deliver:

• The video of the theatrical performance.
• The complete script of the play.
• The detailed report on the project.

These deliveries are fundamental pieces for evaluating teamwork, research skills, and writing skills of the students, as well as the understanding of key concepts about the French Revolution.