Napoleon had two sides. It's possible to see him as a megalomaniac dictator whose arrogance and self-promoting egotism led to nearly 15 years of continual war and the deaths of millions of Europeans. From his rise to power in 1799 to his first abdication in 1814 he went to war with Britain, Austria, Prussia, Russia, the Ottoman empire, Spain, Portugal... need I go on? He won and lost a huge empire, repressed the rights millions and took apart the democracy and liberty of the French Revolution.
This terrible tale may be enough for you to rush out now and buy the next book about Napoleon on amazon. However, the most interesting thing about Napoleon is that people still love him! He still has a good reputation with many intelligent, well read, enlightened people; even some historians can't help buying into his legacy.
Different interpretations of the same event can be really fascinating and one of the most rewarding things to teach but is it really possible to see Napoleon in anything but a bad light? In short, it is and there are a bunch of reasons but sufficient space to explain only one.
In 1815 Napoleon had been banished to the island of Elba for the aforementioned pillaging of Europe. Sadly, Island life did not suit Napoleon and he decided to make a comeback by landing in France with only a handful of loyal (but probably very sceptical) supporters. The new French king, Louis XVIII, sent an army to stop the resurgent emperor. However, after some emotional appeals these soldiers simply joined with Bonaparte and marched on Paris. He returned to power for 100 days until the battle of Waterloo finished him for the second time and he was sent into exile again; the British sent him to the remote St. Helena this time to stop any future heroic comebacks.
My sixth formers have been split on Napoleon. Some condemn his appalling record, but others (and I can see the temptation) love the guts and self confidence that went into this 100 day come back. Perhaps it would be easier if there were two Napoelons: one murderer who we could hate and a gutsy, talented general who we could admire. Alas, history and people are not that simple. Indeed, it is often the paradoxes and complexities that make it so interesting.
For more on this: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hundred_Days#Return_to_France
