Scan barcode
A review by tomstbr
Napoleon: A Life by Andrew Roberts
4.0
I read a review that said this was bias, that 'Great' is not a term we should use for Napoleon. First, this book is not bias and shows Napoleon warts and all. The author brings up contrary evidence from detractors but properly dismisses them as bias when appropriate. Second, in the concluding chapter it is pretty clear that Napoleon is a Great, and that his disaster's were merely the result of hubris, something that affects all Greats, from leading surgeons to Ronda Rousey. His legacy has lasted and on a purely numbers game he is one of the leading men of history.
I have also read that you can judge a book (or I suppose writer) by the amount of other books they spur you to read. Eg I just started Duff Cooper's 'Talleyrand', and plan to read books on Nelson, Catherine the Great, the Congress of Vienna, Prussia and the Russian Campaign. All this a result of learning the fascinating ins and outs of the life of Napoleon.
Of course the battle accounts are detailed and interesting, but it is more Napoleon's letters and communications that really entertain and enlighten. It's a tragic story, but one that is important and we all should know.
Oh yeah and the audiobook wrapped up as I opened the door after my morning walk, great timing.
I have also read that you can judge a book (or I suppose writer) by the amount of other books they spur you to read. Eg I just started Duff Cooper's 'Talleyrand', and plan to read books on Nelson, Catherine the Great, the Congress of Vienna, Prussia and the Russian Campaign. All this a result of learning the fascinating ins and outs of the life of Napoleon.
Of course the battle accounts are detailed and interesting, but it is more Napoleon's letters and communications that really entertain and enlighten. It's a tragic story, but one that is important and we all should know.
Oh yeah and the audiobook wrapped up as I opened the door after my morning walk, great timing.