“Napoleon I’s domestic policies had a significant impact on French society.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits of the statement suggesting that Napoleon I had a major impact on French society. Candidates may argue that he built on the Revolution and brought about significant administrative change in France; establishing the Bank of France and the départements system all contributed to a more stable society. Some might also argue that the Code Napoleon and the educational reforms (lycées) all had a major impact on society, removing the last remnants of the Ancien Régime. To disagree with the statement, it could be argued that the Code was patriarchal and that education reforms did little for the poor or women. With the formation of the Empire, a new elite was established with titles (many for members of his own family or his generals) and honours which mirrored the past. Arguably, the social structure in Napoleonic France was rather like the past but with a more effective central power. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that Napoleon l's domestic policies had a significant impact on French society. Some candidates provided relevant knowledge about Napoleon l's domestic policies: for example, the Code Napoleon. In general, candidates needed a wider range of policies and to focus more on the degree of impact on French society.