La Marseillaise is the France National Anthem. Its stirring melody and patriotic lyrics have been an inspiration to French citizens for over two centuries. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history and significance of this iconic anthem.
History of La Marseillaise: France National Anthem
La Marseillaise was composed by Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle in Strasbourg in April 1792. The song was originally called “Chant de guerre pour l’armée du Rhin” (War Song for the Rhine Army) and was dedicated to the French army that was preparing to defend France against Prussian invasion. The song quickly became popular and was adopted as the national anthem of France in 1795.
During the 19th century, La Marseillaise became a symbol of French patriotism and was sung at important events such as the July Revolution of 1830 and the Paris Commune of 1871. The anthem was also used during World War I to rally French troops and boost morale.
Lyrics of France National Anthem
The lyrics of La Marseillaise were written by Rouget de Lisle in one night in April 1792. The song tells the story of the French Revolution and the struggle for liberty, equality, and fraternity. The lyrics contain several references to the French Revolution, such as the “ferocious soldiers” and “impure blood” of the aristocracy.
The chorus of La Marseillaise is perhaps the most recognizable part of the anthem. It goes:
“Allons enfants de la Patrie,
Le jour de gloire est arrivé!
Contre nous de la tyrannie,
L’étendard sanglant est levé!”
Translated into English, this means:
“Arise, children of the Fatherland,
The day of glory has arrived!
Against us, tyranny’s
Bloody banner is raised!”
Significance of the France National Anthem
La Marseillaise is more than just a national anthem. It is a symbol of French patriotism, unity, and resistance. The anthem has been sung at important moments in French history, such as the liberation of Paris during World War II and the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.
The lyrics of La Marseillaise also reflect the values of the French Republic, such as liberty, equality, and fraternity. The anthem reminds the French people of the sacrifices made by their ancestors to achieve these values and encourages them to continue fighting for them.
Controversies surrounding the France National Anthem
Despite its patriotic significance, La Marseillaise has been criticized for its violent and bloodthirsty lyrics. The reference to “impure blood” in the anthem has been interpreted as a call for violence against the aristocracy and foreigners.
In recent years, some French citizens have called for the lyrics of La Marseillaise to be updated to reflect modern values of tolerance and inclusivity. However, others argue that the anthem should remain unchanged as a symbol of France’s revolutionary past.
Conclusion
La Marseillaise is a powerful symbol of French patriotism and resistance. Its stirring melody and passionate lyrics have inspired generations of French citizens to fight for liberty, equality, and fraternity. Despite its controversial lyrics, the anthem remains an important part of French national identity.
FAQs
- Who composed La Marseillaise?
Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle composed La Marseillaise in 1792.
- When was La Marseillaise adopted as the national anthem of France?
La Marseillaise was adopted as the national anthem of France in 1795.
- What does the chorus of La Marseillaise mean in English?
The chorus of La Marseillaise translates to “Arise, children of the Fatherland, The day of glory has arrived! Against us, tyranny’s Bloody banner is raised!”
- Why has La Marseillaise been criticized?
La Marseillaise has been criticized for its violent and bloodthirsty lyrics, particularly the reference to “impure blood” which has been interpreted as a call for violence against the aristocracy and foreigners.
- Has there been any controversy around changing the lyrics of La Marseillaise?
Yes, some French citizens have called for the lyrics of La Marseillaise to be updated to reflect modern values of tolerance and inclusivity. However, others argue that the anthem should remain unchanged as a symbol of France’s revolutionary past.
References
- French Government website: “La Marseillaise”: https://www.gouvernement.fr/la-marseillaise
- France24: “The story behind La Marseillaise, France’s national anthem”: https://www.france24.com/en/culture/20210713-the-story-behind-la-marseillaise-france-s-national-anthem
- History.com: “Why is La Marseillaise the French National Anthem?”: https://www.history.com/news/why-is-la-marseillaise-the-french-national-anthem