On Wellington

Brief Summary

On Wellington by Carl von Clausewitz is an enlightening exploration of the events surrounding the Battle of Waterloo, underpinned by Clausewitz's sharp strategic insight. Brought to light by historian Peter Hofschröer, this commentary provides a unique perspective on the Duke of Wellington's role, with an emphasis on the manipulative historical cover-up that kept these observations hidden for nearly two centuries. The book promises a fresh reevaluation of crucial moments in the Waterloo campaign.

Main Themes and Topics

The predominant theme of On Wellington revolves around historical revisionism and the control of narrative, particularly in military history. Clausewitz's commentary suggests that the Duke of Wellington maneuvered to suppress certain accounts of the Battle of Waterloo, affecting historical interpretation. The text delves into strategic analysis and military theory, highlighting Clausewitz's methodical approach to understanding battles and leadership within the context of the Napoleonic Wars.

Writing Style and Tone

Clausewitz's writing in On Wellington is characterized by its analytical precision and strategic depth, which mirrors his seminal work, On War. The tone is scholarly, offering a critical viewpoint that is both informative and challenging. Hofschröer's contributions as an editor provide clarity and context, making Clausewitz's historical insights more accessible to modern readers.

Criticism

Some criticisms of On Wellington may arise from its dense military analysis, which could be challenging for readers unfamiliar with Clausewitz's work or with the intricacies of Napoleonic warfare. The book demands a certain level of prior knowledge to fully appreciate the strategic evaluations and the implications of withheld historical narratives.