Napoleon rarely used his Christian name before he became an Emperor. Even Josephine referred to him as Bonaparte both in private and in public before his imperial elevation made the use of 'Napoleon' necessary.

Yet some contemporaries, such as Wellington, insisted on referring to him as Bonaparte or even used the Corsican spelling (Buonaparte) as a sign of their derision. I believe this is why modern day authors are considered pro or anti-Napoleon depending upon which name they use.

I am writing a chapter summarising Napoleon's career and, as a writer, try my best to be objective being neither pro or anti Napoleon. Purely in the interests of accuracy, I have used the name Bonaparte predominantly (though not exclusively) up to his coronation. After he becomes Emperor of France, I refer to him as Napoleon or the Emperor.

I would be interested to know if people, particularly those who care strongly about Napoleon, find this approach acceptable.