In both a philosophical and a practical work, Clausewitz defines the essential nature of war, debates the qualities of a great commander, assesses the relative strengths of defensive and offensive war, and - in highly controversial passages - considers the relationship between war and politics.
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In both a philosophical and a practical work, Clausewitz defines the essential nature of war, debates the qualities of a great commander, assesses the relative strengths of defensive and offensive war, and - in highly controversial passages - considers the relationship between war and politics.
Read Less
I think of this as an interesting read in as much that it gets you into the thinking what went into the battles at the time this was written. What strategies were successful for Napoleon for example wouldn't be applicable in a more modern battlefield, but still some nice insights on the basics so to speak. The book itself is just the right size for thumbing through and browsing.
steve15
Aug 12, 2010
Very Interesting with great analysis in foreward
This is a great book and an excellent translation of Clausewitz. I have been reading a different translation that does not serve the reader as well. This edition includes an interesting analysis of Clausewitz' work and assists the reader in understanding what this book is about and provides context.
If you have an interest in strategy, not just military strategy, as well as the decision making process; this is a great book.
OBB
Jan 15, 2009
I might or might not recomend it.
I found it a bit heavy going after The Art of War, and had to put it down and take a rest from it. however it certainly is an enlightening read, and suggests what was wrong with 19/20 century military doctrine. Perhaps it is the particular edition or version and translator. I am currently resting it and am uncertain if I will finish it.
EmmetNZ
Apr 20, 2007
Definative translation
Clausewitz' theories and reputation suffered much in the English speaking world from poor translations until Howard and Paret published this Princeton University Press translation in 1976. For the first time we had a near definative version of the superlative strategist's work. As a bonus, the translation contains four seminal essays; one each from the translators and two from the doyen of post-war strategic studies, Bernard Brodie. Of particular importance is Brodie's guide to reading (and understanding)Clausewitz, an absolute must-have for all practical and armchair straegists. Ignore the awful Anatol Rapoport version of Clausewitz published currently by Penguin and go for this version. The single most important work in military history.
