![AP European History Class Eulogizes Napoleon]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1735922658/morristown/meokrv9rdpxfuhcflukc/IMG_4685.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1735922658/morristown/meokrv9rdpxfuhcflukc/IMG_4685.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1735922658/morristown/meokrv9rdpxfuhcflukc/IMG_4685.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1735922658/morristown/meokrv9rdpxfuhcflukc/IMG_4685.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1735922658/morristown/meokrv9rdpxfuhcflukc/IMG_4685.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1735922658/morristown/meokrv9rdpxfuhcflukc/IMG_4685.jpg","width":2200}])
With an air of solemnity and a dash of dark humor, students in Dr. Gretchen Atwater’s AP European History class commemorated Napoleon Bonaparte in a uniquely engaging way. Taking on the personas of historical figures, they delivered 2-3 minute eulogies for “The Little Corporal,” standing beside a skeleton lying in state at the front of the room.
Reactions to Napoleon’s legacy were as varied as history itself. Some characters praised the French leader’s brilliance and ambition, while others expressed deep resentment over his actions. Among the historical figures represented were statesmen, soldiers, and even adversaries, each offering a vivid and personal perspective on one of history’s most complex leaders.
This dynamic activity brought history to life, blending critical thinking with theatrical flair. Napoleon’s legacy, it seems, is as contentious and fascinating in the classroom as it was on the battlefield! The students portrayed a number of historical figures including:
Marie Louise of Austria – Clara Paynter '25
Member of the Directory – Jay Spencer '25
King Louis XVIII – Sarah Freeman '25
Pope Pius VII – Ilana Manne '25
Toussaint L’Ouverture – Kimi Freeman '25
Author Germaine de Staël – Hailey Tannen '25
Czar Alexander I – Jaya Pally '25
Joseph Bonaparte – Mikey Urbach '25
Arthur Wellesley, Duke of Wellington – Emma Teitelbaum '25
Soldier under Napoleon’s command in Russia – Justin Kothavale '25
King George III – Sloane Fiverson '25
Person of nobility in France – Patrick Birnbaum '25
Spanish nationalist soldier – Indiya Weinmann '25
Maximilien Robespierre – Jacob Suna '25
