The Social Contract · Character

Montesquieu

Philosopher cited on laws, government forms, and climate theory.

minor

Also known as Montesquieu

First appearance: vi law

Montesquieu's tie to Emile is one of the pressures that moves The Social Contract—worth meeting in the text, not only on a cast list.

Quoted on the idea that rulers of republics establish institutions, and then institutions mould the rulers.

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With Emile (social): Emile is a fictional character and does not interact with Montesquieu directly, but Rousseau's educational ideas…

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Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

The emotional and psychological peak occurs in the recognition that the tribunate, as a "link or middle term,"…

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Emile
social · ambivalent
Emile is a fictional character and does not interact with Montesquieu directly, but… How this plays out →

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Montesquieu appears across 6 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

The Legislator
Quoted on the idea that rulers of republics establish institutions, and then institutions mould the rulers.
XI: The Various Systems of Legislation
Referenced as the author of 'The Spirit of the Laws', which showed how the legislator directs the constitution towards various objects.
IV: Democracy
Referenced as 'a famous writer' who made virtue the principle of republics, though Rousseau notes his imprecision.
That All Forms of Government Do Not Suit All Countries
His principle that liberty is not a fruit of all climates is cited and expanded upon.
Elections
Quoted on the democratic nature of election by lot.
Endnotes
Referenced for his work on the greatness and decadence of the Romans.

Chapter companion notes

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