Utopian fictions: Before and after revolution

Abstract

The paper explores the ways in which the ideal order is introduced in utopian fictions prior to and after the French Revolution. Despite an apparent variety of different methods, the key role is most often ascribed to the figure of the founding father who both designed and successfully implemented his plans for a radically better state and society. The fictional pattern is then compared to corresponding discursive practices of revolutions and revolution-like activities that have managed to overthrow the existing socio-political systems.