I am trying to analyse a source about how this source is valuable for an inquiry into the reason for the collapse of the absolute monarchy in 1789. But I am struggling because I do not really understand the purpose of the source. Can I get some help about how to approach this question?
Antoine Barnave- Leading member of the National Assembly and wrote this reflection on the causes of the French revolution whilst he was waiting execution during the Terror of 1793.
The democratic ideal, virtually stifled under all European governments while the feudal system remained powerful, has gathered strength and continues to grow...The two privileged orders who still retained control of the government were ruined through their taste for luxury and had degraded themselves by their way of life. The Third Estate, in contrast, had produced enlightened thinkers and acquired enormous wealth. The people were restrained only by their habit of servitude and the limited hope they had of breaking their chains. The government had succeeded in containing this hope; but it had nevertheless flourished in the heart of the nation.