Question

Why were images and symbols used in the eighteenth century France? What do the following symbols stand for?
(i) The broken chain
(ii) The eye within a triangle radiating light
(iii) The Law Tablet
(iv) The bundle of rods of fasces

Answer 1

Literacy was very low in the 18th century France. Majority of men and women could not read or write. So images and symbols were frequently used instead of printed words to communicate the content of the Declaration of Rights. The following symbols conveyed different ideas :
(i) The broken chain: Chains were used to fetter slaves. A broken chain stands for the act of becoming free.
(ii) The eye within a triangle radiating light: The all-seeing eye stands for knowledge. The rays of the sun will drive away the clouds of ignorance.
(iii) The Law Tablet: The law is the same for all and all are equal before it.
(iv) The bundle of rods or fasces: One rod can be easily broken, but not an entire bundle. This implies that strength lies in unity.