Intellectual Suicide

Militant feminists have staged a fake suicide at Notre Dame, mocking and mangling the example of Dominique Venner, the right-wing historian who shot himself to death at the altar yesterday. Venner left a note proclaiming, "I believe it is necessary to sacrifice myself to break the lethargy that oppresses us. I offer what remains of my life in an act of protest", apparently at the immense danger posed to French and European culture by the institution of marriage. Marine Le Pen tweeted her respect, which doubtless made it all worth while. It is a pity that Femen have chosen to parody the gesture in such an undignified manner, which might well deter some of those who hold Venner's opinions from following his useful example.