Crécy By: Hilaire Belloc (1870-1953)
Crécy by Hilaire Belloc is a remarkable historical account that delves into the captivating events of the infamous Battle of Crécy during the Hundred Years' War. Belloc's vivid storytelling and meticulous research bring to life the intricacies of this significant conflict between English and French forces. The book masterfully sets the scene, providing readers with a detailed overview of the political tensions and rivalries that led to the outbreak of war. Belloc's eloquent prose transports readers back in time, immersing them in the war-torn landscapes and the tumultuous atmosphere of medieval Europe. One of the most commendable aspects of Crécy is Belloc's ability to balance historical facts with engaging storytelling. He seamlessly incorporates firsthand anecdotes, diary entries, and letters from both English and French soldiers, giving readers a glimpse into the human aspect of war. This personal touch not only adds depth to the narrative but also allows readers to empathize with the soldiers and comprehend the realities they faced on the battlefield. Belloc's meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout the book. His thorough examination of military tactics, weaponry, and the strategies employed by both sides offers a comprehensive understanding of the Battle of Crécy. Furthermore, Belloc's analysis of the socio-political implications of the conflict sheds light on the ramifications that reverberated across Europe for years to come. The author's passion for the subject matter shines through in every page of Crécy. Belloc's admiration for the bravery and tenacity of the English longbowmen is palpable, as is his acknowledgment of the strategic genius demonstrated by the Black Prince, Edward of Woodstock. At the same time, he presents a well-rounded portrayal of the French forces, highlighting their valor and resilience in spite of the odds stacked against them. While Crécy undoubtedly provides a comprehensive account of the battle, some readers may find the level of detail overwhelming at times. Belloc's extensive descriptions of troop movements and strategic maneuvers could potentially bog down the pacing of the narrative for those with a casual interest in history. However, for history enthusiasts and scholars, this level of detail is indeed a strength, allowing for a deep dive into the battle's intricacies. In conclusion, Crécy by Hilaire Belloc is an enthralling and meticulously researched account of one of history's most significant battles. Belloc's captivating storytelling, attention to detail, and passion for the subject matter make this book a must-read for anyone interested in medieval warfare or the Hundred Years' War. First Page: CRÉCY [Illustration] CRÉCY BY HILAIRE BELLOC MCMXII STEPHEN SWIFT AND CO., LTD. 16 KING STREET, COVENT GARDEN LONDON CONTENTS PAGE INTRODUCTION, 9 I. THE POLITICAL CIRCUMSTANCES, 20 II. THE CAMPAIGN OF CRÉCY, 29 III. THE PRELIMINARIES OF THE BATTLE, 61 IV. THE TERRAIN OF CRÉCY, 91 V. THE ACTION, 100 CRÉCY INTRODUCTION Between those last precise accounts of military engagements which antiquity has left us in small number, and what may be called the modern history of war, there lies a period of many centuries quite 1400 years during which the details of an action and even the main features of a campaign are never given us by contemporary recorders. Through all that vast stretch of time we are compelled, if we desire to describe with any accuracy, and at any length, the conduct of a battle, to "reconstitute" the same. In other words, we have to argue from known conditions to unknown. We have to establish by a comparison of texts and of traditions, and by other processes which will be dealt with in a moment, a number of elements which, where a modern action is concerned, numerous memoirs and official record often accompanied by elaborate maps can put clearly before us... Continue reading book >>

Crécy By: Hilaire Belloc (1870-1953)

Crécy by Hilaire Belloc is a remarkable historical account that delves into the captivating events of the infamous Battle of Crécy during the Hundred Years' War. Belloc's vivid storytelling and meticulous research bring to life the intricacies of this significant conflict between English and French forces.

The book masterfully sets the scene, providing readers with a detailed overview of the political tensions and rivalries that led to the outbreak of war. Belloc's eloquent prose transports readers back in time, immersing them in the war-torn landscapes and the tumultuous atmosphere of medieval Europe.

One of the most commendable aspects of Crécy is Belloc's ability to balance historical facts with engaging storytelling. He seamlessly incorporates firsthand anecdotes, diary entries, and letters from both English and French soldiers, giving readers a glimpse into the human aspect of war. This personal touch not only adds depth to the narrative but also allows readers to empathize with the soldiers and comprehend the realities they faced on the battlefield.

Belloc's meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout the book. His thorough examination of military tactics, weaponry, and the strategies employed by both sides offers a comprehensive understanding of the Battle of Crécy. Furthermore, Belloc's analysis of the socio-political implications of the conflict sheds light on the ramifications that reverberated across Europe for years to come.

The author's passion for the subject matter shines through in every page of Crécy. Belloc's admiration for the bravery and tenacity of the English longbowmen is palpable, as is his acknowledgment of the strategic genius demonstrated by the Black Prince, Edward of Woodstock. At the same time, he presents a well-rounded portrayal of the French forces, highlighting their valor and resilience in spite of the odds stacked against them.

While Crécy undoubtedly provides a comprehensive account of the battle, some readers may find the level of detail overwhelming at times. Belloc's extensive descriptions of troop movements and strategic maneuvers could potentially bog down the pacing of the narrative for those with a casual interest in history. However, for history enthusiasts and scholars, this level of detail is indeed a strength, allowing for a deep dive into the battle's intricacies.

In conclusion, Crécy by Hilaire Belloc is an enthralling and meticulously researched account of one of history's most significant battles. Belloc's captivating storytelling, attention to detail, and passion for the subject matter make this book a must-read for anyone interested in medieval warfare or the Hundred Years' War.

First Page:

CRÉCY

[Illustration]

CRÉCY

BY HILAIRE BELLOC

MCMXII STEPHEN SWIFT AND CO., LTD. 16 KING STREET, COVENT GARDEN LONDON

CONTENTS

PAGE

INTRODUCTION, 9

I. THE POLITICAL CIRCUMSTANCES, 20

II. THE CAMPAIGN OF CRÉCY, 29

III. THE PRELIMINARIES OF THE BATTLE, 61

IV. THE TERRAIN OF CRÉCY, 91

V. THE ACTION, 100

CRÉCY

INTRODUCTION

Between those last precise accounts of military engagements which antiquity has left us in small number, and what may be called the modern history of war, there lies a period of many centuries quite 1400 years during which the details of an action and even the main features of a campaign are never given us by contemporary recorders.

Through all that vast stretch of time we are compelled, if we desire to describe with any accuracy, and at any length, the conduct of a battle, to "reconstitute" the same. In other words, we have to argue from known conditions to unknown. We have to establish by a comparison of texts and of traditions, and by other processes which will be dealt with in a moment, a number of elements which, where a modern action is concerned, numerous memoirs and official record often accompanied by elaborate maps can put clearly before us... Continue reading book >>

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Wikipedia – Crécy

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