In an interview, historian Michel Winock analyzes the increasing violence in French politics, particularly following the death of Quentin Deranque, which he attributes to rising extremism on both the left and the right. This ongoing trend of violence reflects a historical pattern in France's political landscape, which is marked by a long-standing culture of discord and aggressive partisanship.

Winock points out that despite the current intensity of political strife, it is essential to view these crises as part of a broader historical narrative. He argues that the French have faced similar challenges throughout history, with each crisis revealing both constants and unique elements. The violence and institutional paralysis seen today, according to Winock, echo earlier periods in French history, including the civil conflicts endured during the Commune, which he explores in depth in his upcoming book.

The implications of Winock's thoughts raise concerns about the future of democracy in France as the political climate continues to heat up. The interplay of violence and political extremism poses significant risks to democratic traditions and societal cohesion, making it imperative for current leaders and citizens alike to find ways to address and mitigate these tensions before they escalate further.