‘Pyrrhic Victory'

[Old Tom]

I have just read this following a mention on the forum some time ago. The sub-title is 'French Strategy and Operations in the Great War’ I borrowed a copy via the Hampshire County Library and Bristol University. It was worth the wait! A weighty volume which, for me, provided a reminder that the BEF was not the principal player in the Great War and that the French higher commanders were the leaders in the operational field. The relationships between the French government, Joffre, Petain, Nivelle and Foch are explained. Although the phrase is not used, the concept of ‘bite and hold’ as an effective technique compared with the search for breakthrough, emerges clearly.

Old Tom

[Hoplophile]

I would like to second the motion in favour of Doughty's book. It is a magnificent achievement, and does much to fill a yawning gap in the English-language literature on the Great War.