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PARTISAN REVIEW
government and swift progress. One model envisioned change occurring
through consensus and compromise, the other through ideological con–
flict. Although the two models continue to coexist and shape American
political life, the Madisonian model-cast in a Constitution as enduring as
stone-has always dominated the equation.
Despite Madison's and Jefferson's fundamentally different attitudes
toward political power and majority rule, what they share-and what most
distinguishes their political ideas from political thought in revolutionary
France-is a core acceptance of political conflict. For Madison, conflict is
organizational, taking place within the formal structure of government. For
Jefferson, conflict is ideological, taking place in the realm of political ideas.
Both political models tolerate and exploit division, faction, and opposition.
Both models also seek to moderate conflict: one requires a wide consensus
to overcome checks and balances, the other works best when parties and
their ideas are broadly based.
Unity And Repression In France.
On July 11, 1793, the celebrat–
ed artist David came to the Convention, voluminous notes and sketches in
hand. He had come to layout in detail for the members of the Convention
his lavish plans for the
Fete de fa
Reunion,
the revolutionary festival of unity.
It
was to be an overwhelming, inspiring occasion, choreographed down to
the smallest details. Every costume, every color, every song and gesture
would contain some symbolic meaning. The sunrise itself would playa
role in the revolutionary spectacle: people taking part in the festival would
rise before dawn so that the emotional scene of their coming together in
fraternity would be illuminated by the first rays of the sun.
The centerpiece of the pageant, the artist proudly explained, was to be
a stupendous parade: first the members of political clubs would march; they
would be followed by the representatives of the Convention; and finally
and most importantly, the people themselves, the sovereign of France,
would appear. This group, far larger than the others, would be drawn from
all over France and from all walks of life-peasants, workers, artisans.
David's elated voice rose as he elaborated on his artistic and symbolic
intentions: spectators viewing the "people" on parade would not be aware
of distinct individuals at all but would experience instead the merging of
all identities into one, the one true collective revolutionary spirit. The
majestic hero of the celebration was the oneness of the people.
When David finished outlining the scenario for the celebration, he
hurriedly l eft the Convention to supervise final preparations.
Representatives then resumed the work of the day. Billaud-Varenne spoke
first . Angrily calling people's attention to a revolt taking place in Toulouse,
he demanded the punishment of the citizens of Toulouse. No leniency, he
