The Face of Battle
Book description
John Keegan's groundbreaking portrayal of the common soldier in the heat of battle -- a masterpiece that explores the physical and mental aspects of warfare
The Face of Battle is military history from the battlefield: a look at the direct experience of individuals at the "point of maximum danger." Without…
Why read it?
2 authors picked The Face of Battle as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
Keegan popularized a new kind of military history, history focused on the experience of those “at the sharp end” of battle. Generals may as individuals have the most influence on the course of battle, but Keegan argues that, taken together, the men doing the fighting have more influence than the generals. He describes the experiences of men in three famous battles, and shows how tactics evolved but the demands of facing death remained all too familiar. I love this book for using history to find the psychology of men in combat.
From Clark's list on to understand the experience of men in combat.
There are many military histories. However, Keegan’s account talks about what battle is really like for those who fight them. Although he only dwells on the Battle of the Somme in the twentieth century, his telling of it is compelling. There are few battles as tragic and heroic as the Somme.
From Stewart's list on 20th century conflict.
Want books like The Face of Battle?
Our community of 10,000+ authors has personally recommended 33 books like The Face of Battle.
Browse books like The Face of Battle
5 book lists we think you will like!
Interested in the Battle of the Somme, World War 1, and war?
10,000+ authors have recommended their favorite books and what they love about them. Browse their picks for the best books about the Battle of the Somme, World War 1, and war.