The real work of destruction had been done long before by satire, libel and rumour; Marie Antoinette had become dehumanized. The actual assault by a body of people inspiring each other with their bloodthirsty frenzy was the culmination of the process, not the start of it.
The downfall of Marie Antoinette resulted from years of negative perceptions fueled by satire, libel, and rumors, which effectively stripped her of her humanity in the eyes of the public. The relentless mockery and scandal surrounding her were instrumental in shaping her image as a figure of contempt rather than sympathy.
The chaotic actions of the mob that ultimately attacked her were not spontaneous; they were the climax of a long-standing...
