56 pages 1 hour read

Hannah Arendt

On Revolution

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1963

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In On Revolution, Hannah Arendt presents a comparative analysis of the American and French Revolutions, arguing that the American Revolution was successful because it established a durable constitutional republic, whereas the French Revolution failed as it disintegrated into state terror due to prioritizing the social goal of eliminating mass poverty over establishing political freedom.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

On Revolution by Hannah Arendt offers a profound analysis of the nature and trajectory of political revolutions, receiving praise for its depth and originality. Critics commend Arendt's nuanced comparison of the American and French revolutions, but some find her conclusions controversial and her prose dense. Overall, it is a thought-provoking read for those interested in political theory.

Who should read this

Who Should Read On Revolution?

A reader who appreciates On Revolution by Hannah Arendt is likely interested in political theory, history, and philosophy. They would enjoy deep analyses of democratic principles and revolutionary movements, similar to those in Alexis de Tocqueville's Democracy in America or John Locke's Two Treatises of Government.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Philosophy

Politics / Government

History: World

Period

American Revolution

Themes

Society: War

Society: Politics & Government

Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice

Genre

Philosophy

Classic Fiction