Published for the first time in English, Captain J-M Moiret's colourful memoirs are a remarkable insight into Napoleon's invasion of Egypt and shed light on a vital stage in French imperial history. As a precedent to the Napoleonic Wars, the campaign to annexe part of the ancient world captured the imagination of republican France, and posed a long-awaited threat to British imperial designs. Joseph-Marie Moiret was one of the young officers who pledged faith to the expedition and remained true to its cause until it's messy conclusion in 1801 - long after Bonaparte had deserted Egypt to pursue ambitions closer to home. Moiret's memoirs represent a delicate balance between two worlds. As a patriot and officer in the 'invincible' 75th Demi-Brigade, he meticulously transcribes the oratories of their leader, but cuts through their pomp with simple, direct observations about the sufferings of his compatriots, and of the populations they encounter. He gives first-hand accounts of the progress of the invasion, including the seizure of Alexandria, the Battle of the Pyramids and French entry into Cairo. Then comes the reversal of fortune - the revolts in the capital, the evacuation of the Suez and Nile by French soldiers, the onset of plague and the death of General Kleber. Even in the face of immense hardship, Moiret battles to retain values of 'moderation' and 'humanity' he believes to characterise the French Army. This is a fascinating record of victory and failure by one who participated in both the glory and the bloodshed, and which captures evolving social attitudes during what proved to be a challenging era for French national confidence.
