Lawrence of Arabia (Command)

Very interesting, introductory book on TE Lawrence, but shipping was extremely slow.

Too slow.

To be honest, I suspected that this would be a reworking of this author's previous book on the Arab Revolt (published in 2008). I was happily surprised. When one considers the millions of words that have been written about Lawrence of Arabia, this short book works really well as brief introduction. It covers the main phases of Lawrence's life and views his WWI career from primarily a military prespective. I suppose time and space were a factor, but I think Murphy is wise in dealing with the more debated and contentious aspects of Lawrence's life as succiently as possible. At this stage generations of scholars have debated aspects of Lawrence's mindset and character, with no real resolution. The legacy of the David Lean movie is mentioned, but briefly.Good selection of maps and images used throughout. I have read a lot on Lawrence and the Arab campaign and was surprised to see photographs that I had never seen before. There is a photo of Lawrence's father's house in Ireland on p.7 that has never been in print before, which is quite interesting. It just goes to show that there is still some material related to Lawrence's life that remains to be discovered and Murphy is to be commended for rooting this out. In his judgements generally, he seems informed and clear.If I have one criticism is that this left me wanting to know more - more about Lawrence's young life, more about his parents' secret life, more about the workings of Lawrence's mind. But then, there is only so much that can be done in 60 or so pages, which is the Osrpey format for this series. I wonder if Murphy worked up a full bio, would he give us something fresh and new?? He has "form" as a bit of an historical detective.Very colourful and evocative artwork also.Well worth a look. A good basic bio, with suggestions for further reading and the locations of archives for the more curious.

A very brief, quick and easy reference (64 pages) to the life and military achievements of Lawerence of Arabia. Many clear maps, photographs and drawings that have not been published previously by other authors give an interesting and thought provoking insight to this extraordinary man, and the enigma that was his life.

Good

Pleased

fred

Excellent, if uncritical, summary of Lawrence's contribution to the campaign.