Von Schlieffen's "cannae": The Foundation of Germany's Military Strategy in World War I

Main Themes and Topics

Von Schlieffen's "cannae": The Foundation of Germany's Military Strategy in World War I meticulously explores the intricacies of military strategy through the detailed examination of historical battles and campaigns. The book is centered around the concept of the "Cannae," inspired by the famous double-envelopment tactic used by Hannibal in 216 BC. Schlieffen adeptly applies this ancient military strategy to more contemporary contexts, analyzing the campaigns of Frederick the Great and Napoleon, as well as the German campaigns of 1866 and the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71. Schlieffen's work reveals how these historical examples laid the groundwork for Germany's military strategy during World War I.

Writing Style and Tone

The book is a scholarly treatise that showcases Schlieffen's analytical mind and deep understanding of military tactics. His approach is methodical and precise, characteristic of a military strategist who values clarity and depth. The authorised English translation maintains the authoritative and insightful tone of the original, ensuring that Schlieffen's insights are accessible to an English-speaking audience. His writing is dense with information, yet the logical progression of ideas helps guide the reader through complex strategic concepts.

Brief Summary

Von Schlieffen's work is a comprehensive exploration of military strategy, focusing on applying the Cannae model to various historical contexts. The book begins with an analysis of the Battle of Cannae itself, explaining the tactical prowess demonstrated by Hannibal. It then progresses through a series of case studies, examining how similar strategies were employed successfully by military leaders like Frederick the Great and Napoleon. The subsequent focus is on Germany's own military history, specifically the campaigns of 1866 and the Franco-Prussian War, illustrating how these campaigns influenced Germany's strategic approach leading into World War I. An extensive series of detailed color maps complements Schlieffen’s detailed analysis, adding a visual dimension to the textual descriptions of the campaigns.

Criticism

While Von Schlieffen's "cannae": The Foundation of Germany's Military Strategy in World War I is highly regarded for its thorough analysis and historical breadth, some critics argue that its focus on tactical envelopment may overlook other strategic elements crucial to military success. Others suggest that the book's reliance on historical precedent may overly emphasize previous successes while underestimating the unpredictability of war. Nonetheless, these critiques do not overshadow the book's valuable contribution to understanding military strategy.