Talleyrand, Charles Maurice de: Assessment

The prototype of the witty, cynical diplomat, Talleyrand has been either exalted as the savior of Europe in 1815 or damned as an opportunist or even a traitor. His corruption was undeniable, and his pliability enabled him to hold power under the ancien régime, the Revolution, Napoleon, the Restoration, and the July Monarchy. Yet Talleyrand was a good European, and his policy was aimed consistently—and often courageously—at the peace and stability of Europe as a whole.

Sections in this article:

• Introduction
• Assessment
• Talleyrand and the Restoration
• Talleyrand and Napoleon
• Talleyrand and the French Revolution
• Bibliography

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