Activity Overview
The role of women in the French Revolution is often overlooked. However, the stories of female political activism are both controversial and fascinating. Moreover, they provide great insight into the limits of enlightenment thinking in 19th century Western Europe.
In this activity, students will analyze cause and effect within the framework of a political/social revolution using the grid layout. In the first column students give examples of the roles women played in the French Revolution. On the other two columns, two questions must be answered for each example:
- What motivated this action?
- What was the outcome of this action?
Students should consolidate their research on motives and outcomes and explain their storyboard cells in the space provided. The storyboard above is specifically during the Women’s March on Versailles.
Extended Activity
Students can extend this activity by looking at the effect of Napoleon’s rule on women’s rights. Another row of cells could be added to the bottom of this storyboard to explore the motivations and outcomes of Napoleon’s policies regarding women’s rights, or they can create a secondary storyboard.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard detailing the role of women in the French Revolution by analyzing motivations and outcomes.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the first column, identify and describe the different actions women took during the Revolution.
- In the second column, describe the motivations behind their actions.
- In the third column, describe the outcome of their actions.
- Create an illustration for each using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
The role of women in the French Revolution is often overlooked. However, the stories of female political activism are both controversial and fascinating. Moreover, they provide great insight into the limits of enlightenment thinking in 19th century Western Europe.
In this activity, students will analyze cause and effect within the framework of a political/social revolution using the grid layout. In the first column students give examples of the roles women played in the French Revolution. On the other two columns, two questions must be answered for each example:
- What motivated this action?
- What was the outcome of this action?
Students should consolidate their research on motives and outcomes and explain their storyboard cells in the space provided. The storyboard above is specifically during the Women’s March on Versailles.
Extended Activity
Students can extend this activity by looking at the effect of Napoleon’s rule on women’s rights. Another row of cells could be added to the bottom of this storyboard to explore the motivations and outcomes of Napoleon’s policies regarding women’s rights, or they can create a secondary storyboard.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard detailing the role of women in the French Revolution by analyzing motivations and outcomes.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the first column, identify and describe the different actions women took during the Revolution.
- In the second column, describe the motivations behind their actions.
- In the third column, describe the outcome of their actions.
- Create an illustration for each using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about The Role of Women in The French Revolution Graphic Organizer
Use Primary Sources to Deepen Understanding of Women's Roles
Gather excerpts from letters, speeches, or newspapers written by or about women during the French Revolution. Primary sources help students connect with real voices from history and build critical analysis skills.
Guide Students to Analyze Bias in Historical Accounts
Encourage students to discuss how women's actions were portrayed differently by various authors or political groups. This builds awareness of perspective and the importance of evaluating sources critically.
Organize a Collaborative Timeline Activity
Have students work in small groups to place key events involving women on a timeline, noting motivations and outcomes. Timelines help students visualize the sequence and impact of women's actions during the revolution.
Incorporate Creative Writing to Foster Empathy
Ask students to write a diary entry or letter from the perspective of a woman involved in the Revolution. This approach deepens empathy and encourages historical imagination.
Facilitate a Class Discussion on Modern Parallels
Lead a conversation connecting women's activism during the French Revolution to current events or movements. Drawing parallels makes history relevant and engaging for students.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Role of Women in The French Revolution Graphic Organizer
What were the main roles of women during the French Revolution?
Women played crucial roles in the French Revolution, including organizing protests like the Women's March on Versailles, forming political clubs, and advocating for rights and reforms. Their actions influenced both the course of the Revolution and later debates about gender equality.
How can I teach students about women’s contributions to the French Revolution using a graphic organizer?
Use a T-Chart or grid layout where students list examples of women's actions in one column, and then analyze the motivations and outcomes in the next columns. This visual approach helps students understand cause and effect in historical events.
What motivated women to participate in the French Revolution?
Women were driven by economic hardship, hunger, political exclusion, and a desire for equality. Many sought better living conditions, fair prices for bread, and a voice in government decisions affecting their lives.
What was the impact of the Women’s March on Versailles?
The Women's March on Versailles in 1789 forced the royal family to move to Paris and showed the power of collective action by women. It highlighted their political influence and pushed revolutionary leaders to address popular demands.
How did Napoleon’s rule affect women’s rights after the French Revolution?
Napoleon’s rule restricted many gains women had made during the Revolution. The Napoleonic Code limited women’s legal rights, reinforcing traditional gender roles and reversing earlier progress toward equality.
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