Saturday 2 June 2012

1618-1648 The Pointless Years

At 507 pages C.V Wedgewood goes at length to give reasons for the actions of the wars main protagonists, and at the end has to concede that this war ranks up at the top of the list as one of the most unnecessary.  But her knowledge and understanding of the politics is breathtaking.  She will explain why Frederick would act in a certain way, and then why Ferdinand would respond.  This depth of knowledge is absolutely beautiful.  Furthermore her understanding of military strategy is also something to be enjoyed.  She knew the formations and tactics for the major battles.  She has first hand accounts for the ravages of war.  This was a well researched book that left me in awe of her knowledge of the main characters and the various political/religious/power/regional/national struggles all vying for their own goals during this confusing war.

If I have a chance I must try another of her histories.  She is in the same league as Karen Armstrong, who is another historian/theologian? that will leave a reader amazed.

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