The Thirty Years War (New York Review Books Classics)

This is a rip-roaring read! It’s pacey and informed, yet easy for the amateur history buff to absorb and understand. It’s also full of interesting facts, for example, did you know that the phrase ‘is the pope a catholic, originated during the 30 years war? Me neither! The book is littered with Latin phrases, which I didn’t understand. But, with the Internet nowadays, it’s no hindrance to the enjoyment of the book. Once you get your head round the factions; the similar names (Frederick/Ferdinand); and the constant switching of sides, you will enjoy this tale of woe, pestilence and wanton destruction. If the 30 years war has a modern equivalent, you can see it in the rise of IS and AQ, or perhaps in Syria. If it was a warning from history on the pointlessness of unnecessary conflict, it hasn’t, IMHO, been heeded.

Would *definitely* recommend to anyone! Caroline Wedgwood makes the whole period come to life; anyone reading this would have thought she was actually there. A rare blend of first class scholarship of wide-ranging appeal, which mixes well-researched facts with a strong moral approach to the vicissitudes and horrors of the war. Wedgwood is equally skilled at microscopic analysis of battlefield movements and diplomatic exchanges as she is at zooming right out and providing a God's eye view of the whole 30 year period, its causes in the previous century, and its lasting echos down to the Europe of her own day.

Probably one of the most arcane, uninspiring and boring books I've ever read. Reads like a telephone directory. I think the author must have been given a topic to write about which he hated. It certainly feels like it. Have to admit, I only made it 2/3 the way through. Its SOLID!The charity shop got it... With my apologies.

Wedgewood had an innate talent for finding the drama in any event. The Thirty Years War, a combination of numerous religious, political and economic factors, was probably the most defining moment in European history until the First World War, and so it should be ripe with royal drama, thrilling exploits, military spectacles and political intrigue. Wedgewood exposes all of these elements into a thrilling read, steeped in historical significance and weighty writing, which still maintains the informative aura of a well-researched scholarly effort on a key historical event. Anyone interested in the War and it's background should start with this book first, it's the middle-ground between storytelling and teaching.

One of the best history books I've ever read. Wedgewood paints a beautiful portrait of the times and how the war spun out of control. The characters are vivid and the narrative is clear. Written in 1939, it is interesting to see how the German war on her horizon factors into her understanding of the events of the book.

I am delighted to say that this order was finally delivered on 11th January and the recipient is equally delighted with the book, which is a classic study of the period i first read many years ago and remains essential reading for anyone interested in the history pf the period.

This is my first book I have read regarding the thirty year war. It was very informative. It can be dry with all the facts. It can read like a school history book. This is good if you are trying to understand the thirty year war in more detail. My only negative comment in this area is the lack of detail about the battles. Very good information on the politics of the situations but little in the way of detail in how battles were fought. If you are looking for a light read this book is not for you but if you are looking to expand your knowledge of the thirty year war beyond the battlefield this book is for you.

This had me unable to put it down until I'd finished. It's a terrific account of the war, the characters, the motives and the people. I thoroughly enjoyed it.