(The birth of a revolutionary myth). [PAYAN (Joseph-Francois - Lot 172

(The birth of a revolutionary myth). [PAYAN (Joseph-Francois de, dit Payan Dumoulin)]: Précis historique sur Agricole Viala. S.l., Imprimerie de la Commission de l'Instruction Publique, s.d. [1794], one volume. 11.5 by 18.5 cm. 6 pages. Modern bradel boards. Leaves slightly foxed, otherwise good condition. First edition. Very rare revolutionary propaganda brochure by Joseph Payan, director of the executive commission for public instruction created on 12 germinal year II (April 1, 1794). Payan was a fervent Robespierriste, and this text, intended for the armies, départements, districts, municipalities and popular societies, was published shortly before Robespierre's planned celebration of the pantheonization of Joseph Barra and Alexandre Viala on Thermidor 10th. The celebration was of course cancelled after the fall of the Incorruptible. This propaganda text was intended to galvanize heroic Republican youth: "above all, to teach young Frenchmen that love of one's country is a fruitful source of glory and virtue; that in running to his death, a Republican seeks less to live in history than to save his homeland and ensure public happiness".