Liberty in Villeurbanne

Liberty is often called Marianne in France. So, on Monday, when we arrived at the end of the square in the Skyscrapers District of Villeurbanne, we discovered a statue of Marianne commemorating WW2.

The first thing I noticed was the machine gun in her hands. I had never seen Marianne with a modern gun ! And I was not mistaking ! It was definitely Marianne with her Phrygian cap, her naked bust... It is so easy to recognize her once you keep in mind the painting by Delacroix called Liberté guidant le peuple. Or we think about our stamps.

Coincidentally I read a text about Marianne yesterday saying that "French people were led into the French Revolution by a pair or boobies" with the painting by Delacroix. A man must have written that, only a man can write that ! And where is the problem ? She has led people to victory ! I imagine this man arriving in front of the statue would have not noticed the machine gun first... Male eyes and female eyes don't look at the same things. We know this, don't we ?

After a walk around I only saw the broken chains and the inscription saying the statue has been put on soil brought back from German camps. A beautiful statue fitting with the style of the district.

Comments

[Kay Lamb]

She has such a "Don't mess with me " persona if I were a man I'd be afraid to notice those boobs. looks too much like they could become daggers.

[Maryse]

Usually memorials show soldiers or sometimes families, this statue is very uncommon and impressing.

[Barbara]

Hello Maryes, I enjoyed the article very much. It is true what you say about the difference in men and women. I first looked at her face and saw her strength and then her shoulders and arms showed she carried something of importance. It is a beautiful thank you for sharing.
Blessings,
Barbara

[Maryse]

Thank you.