A Savoyard lawyer, diplomat, writer, and philosopher, he was the most influential spokesman for hierarchical political systems in the period immediately following the French Revolution. Despite his close ties to France, he remained a loyal subject of the King of Sardinia, serving in various capacities. Maistre argued for the restoration of hereditary monarchy as a divinely sanctioned institution and championed the indirect authority of the Pope over temporal matters. In his view, only governments founded upon a Christian constitution, embedded in the customs and institutions of European societies, could avert the disorder and bloodshed stemming from rationalist political programs. He was an enthusiastic proponent of hierarchical authority, extolling monarchy, exalting papal privileges, and glorifying divine providence.
Since their first publication in 1821, de Maistre's dark writings have fascinated and appalled critics, with their relentless hatred of the Enlightenment and view of humans as murderous beasts who can only be controlled by the threat of overwhelming punishment. Terrifying and bizarre, The Executioner is a meditation on human evil like no other.
Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne have produced highly original and ethically charged films that immerse their audiences in an intense and embodied viewing experience. This book presents a study of the Belgian brothers, analyzes their directorial style, and explores the many philosophical issues dealt with in their films.