The Marne, 1914
by Holger H. Herwig
"The Opening of World War I and the Battle That Changed the World"
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4.74 / 5
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The Marne, 1914 by Holger H. Herwig
Details
War:
World War I
Perspective:
Commanders
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
Europe
Page Count:
434
Published Date:
2009
ISBN13:
9781588369093
Description
Main Themes and Topics
"The Marne, 1914" by Holger H. Herwig delves deep into the pivotal Battle of the Marne that dramatically altered the trajectory of World War I. At its core, the book explores the German military’s Schlieffen Plan, dissecting it as a strategic approach aimed at circumventing a prolonged conflict against allied forces. Herwig provides an exhaustive analysis of the intricate dynamics leading up to the battle, portraying it as a defining moment that reshaped the course of history. Another significant theme is the stark contrast in military strategies and coordination—or lack thereof—between the German and French forces, with an emphasis on the French determination and their pivotal role in thwarting a swift German victory.
Writing Style and Tone
Holger H. Herwig’s writing style in "The Marne, 1914" is both scholarly and engaging. He successfully blends academic rigor with narrative flair, allowing readers to glean intricate details of military strategy without losing the engagement typical of well-crafted historical narratives. The tone is authoritative yet accessible, making complex military maneuvers and tactical decisions understandable for both scholars and general history enthusiasts. Herwig's meticulous research shines through in the retelling, providing a vivid portrayal of early 20th-century warfare.
Brief Summary
In "The Marne, 1914," Holger H. Herwig presents a compelling retelling of the Battle of the Marne, a decisive World War I encounter. As German forces advanced into France, what seemed like a near-certain victory was subverted by French tenacity and critical strategic errors on the part of the Germans. Herwig stitches together a narrative from newly discovered documents, shedding new light on the motives and actions of key figures such as Helmuth von Moltke and Joseph Joffre. The book not only recounts the events of the battle but also re-evaluates the effectiveness and rationale of the Schlieffen Plan, offering fresh insight into this critical moment in history.
