The Book of War: 25 Centuries of Great War Writing

From Thucydides' classic account of ancient Greek phalanx warfare to a blow-by-blow description of ground-fighting against the Iraqi forces during the Gulf War, The Book of War presents the face of battle over the course of more than 2,000 years. Acclaimed historian John Keegan brings together an amazing array of war writings, largely drawn from the protagonists themselves or firsthand accounts of the battles they describe. Here are Caesar's Commentaries on the Roman Invasion of Britain; Wellington on the Battle of Waterloo; Hemingway after Caporetto; Ernie Pyle at Normandy; and James Fenton at the Fall of Saigon. Weaving the various pieces together, with a brilliant introductory essay and substantial headnotes, John Keegan has created a rich tapestry that epitomizes the warrior spirit. 492 pages.