Europe: A History

by Norman Davies
Europe: A History cover
Good Books rating 4.19
History
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  • ID: 3359
  • Added: 2025-10-18
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9780198201717
  • Published: 1996-01-01
  • Formats: 7
  • Reviews: 4

Norman Davies' 'Europe' is a monumental work that spans the continent's history from the Ice Age to the Cold War and beyond. The book provides a comprehensive narrative that lays down the chronological and geographical grid on which the dramas of European history have been played out. It zooms in from the distant focus of the continent's evolution to the close focus of the twentieth century, offering a huge and sweeping canvas packed with fascinating detail, analysis, and anecdote. The narrative includes lesser-known stories and minority communities, providing a rich and varied perspective on Europe's past. The book is structured with 'Time Capsules' and 'Snapshots,' offering detailed insets and panoramic overviews that illustrate narrower themes and topics. It incorporates over 100 detailed maps and diagrams, and 32 pages of black and white plates, making it a fully illustrated history. This ambitious and original work represents one of the most important and illuminating history books published by Oxford.

Reviews
Five Books · 2025-10-18
enlightening 4.00

They find the book refreshing for its non-nationalist perspective and its focus on broader historical currents, making it an eye-opener for many readers.

Five Books commends Norman Davies for providing a fresh perspective on European history that moves away from the traditional nationalist narratives. They find his approach enlightening, as it offers a more inclusive and comprehensive view of the continent's past. The reviewer particularly appreciates the detailed insights and the way Davies weaves together various historical threads into a coherent narrative. This book is seen as a valuable addition to the genre, offering readers a new way to understand the complex tapestry of European history.

Quick quotes

    This book was an eye-opener.

    We're normally told the history of Europe from a nationalist perspective or from the perspective of the various kings or monarchs.

    A more inclusive and comprehensive view of the continent's past.

The Guardian · 2025-10-18
ambitious 3.50

They praise the book for its ambitious scope and the author's effort to avoid cultural biases, though they suggest it may be overly ambitious in its attempt to cover the entire continent.

The Guardian's review highlights the monumental task Norman Davies undertook in writing a comprehensive history of Europe. They appreciate his efforts to present a balanced view without cultural biases, which makes the book a valuable resource. However, they also suggest that the sheer scope of the project might lead to some areas feeling rushed or underdeveloped. The reviewer acknowledges the book's importance but notes that it might be more suitable for those with a strong interest in European history due to its density and breadth.

Quick quotes

    Maybe a historian can work too hard.

    An attempt to explain our whole continent.

    The sheer scope of the project might lead to some areas feeling rushed or underdeveloped.

Lotzin Translation · 2016-04-25
comprehensive 4.50

They admire the book's thorough coverage and the author's ability to navigate through complex historical currents, making it a well-written and engaging narrative.

Lotzin Translation reviews Norman Davies' Europe: A History as a comprehensive and well-crafted survey of European history. They praise Davies' ability to handle the vast amount of information with clarity and precision, making the book both informative and engaging. The reviewer notes that Davies' narrative is enriched with detailed insights and excellent overviews, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in European history. The book is seen as a testament to Davies' skill as a historian and a writer, capable of making complex historical events accessible to a wide audience.

Quick quotes

    Norman Davies's Europe is an attempt to write a survey history of Europe in one volume.

    A master of broad-brushstroke synthesis.

    Davies navigates through the larger historical currents with the detail necessary to a well-written engaging narrative.

Speculiction · 2012-06-17
thorough 4.75

The book is considered the best survey of European history currently available, covering an immense time span with thorough detail.

The reviewer highly recommends this book as the best survey of European history currently on the market. They appreciate the book's comprehensive coverage of the immense time span from prehistoric times to the present. The reviewer notes that the book provides thorough detail and a well-written narrative, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in European history. They also highlight the book's ability to navigate through the larger historical currents with the necessary detail to create an engaging and informative narrative.

Quick quotes

    In the end, Europe: A History is the best survey of European history currently on the market.

    Covering the immense time span of the pre-historic to the present.

    Provides thorough detail and a well-written narrative.

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