Tactics and the Experience of Battle in the Age of Napoleon

by Rory Muir
Tactics and the Experience of Battle in the Age of Napoleon cover
Good Books rating 4.23
History
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  • ID: 6788
  • Added: 2025-12-05
  • Updated: 2025-12-05
  • ISBN: 9780300082708
  • Publisher: Yale University Press
  • Published: 2000-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Tactics and the Experience of Battle in the Age of Napoleon offers a vivid exploration of combat during the Napoleonic Wars, drawing on personal accounts from soldiers and officers. The book delves into the dynamics of battle, examining how the interactions between artillery, infantry, and cavalry influenced the outcome of engagements. It also explores the psychological aspects of combat, including morale, esprit de corps, and the attitudes of soldiers toward death and the enemy. Author Rory Muir enhances his analysis with dramatic firsthand accounts, providing a unique perspective on the mechanics of musketry, artillery, and cavalry charges. The book also discusses the roles of various military personnel, from generals and staff officers to aides-de-camp, and the challenges they faced on the battlefield. This volume is a must-read for anyone interested in military history, European history, or the psychology of combat.

Reviews
Reddit - r/Napoleon · u/UnknownUser · 2022-01-01
great 4.50

The book is highly recommended for its insightful analysis of Napoleonic battles and the personal experiences of soldiers. It is considered a must-read for anyone interested in military history.

This book is a fantastic resource for understanding the Napoleonic Wars from the perspective of those who fought in them. The author's use of personal accounts adds a human element to the historical narrative, making it both informative and engaging. Readers have praised the book for its depth and the way it brings the past to life. It's a bit dense in places, but the effort is well worth it for the insights gained.

Quick quotes

    I just finished reading Tactics and the Experience of Battle in the Age of Napoleon by Rory Muir (which I highly recommend).

    It does a great job of explaining the tactics and strategies used during the Napoleonic Wars.

    The book is well-researched and provides a unique perspective on the experiences of soldiers.

ProQuest · GE Rothenberg · 1999-01-01
excellent 4.20

The book is well-regarded for its comprehensive exploration of Napoleonic tactics and the personal experiences of soldiers. It is noted for its thorough research and engaging narrative.

GE Rothenberg provides a detailed review of the book, highlighting its strengths in both research and narrative. The author's use of personal accounts from soldiers adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the historical analysis. Rothenberg notes that the book is particularly valuable for its insights into the tactical decisions and personal experiences of those who fought in the Napoleonic Wars. While it may be dense for some readers, the depth of information and the engaging storytelling make it a worthwhile read for history enthusiasts.

Quick quotes

    The author is well aware of the complexities of military history and presents them in an accessible manner.

    The book is a valuable addition to the literature on the Napoleonic Wars.

    The use of personal accounts adds a human element to the historical narrative.

Goodreads · 1998-04-20
excellent 4.00

The book offers a detailed and immersive look into the experiences of soldiers during the Napoleonic Wars. It is praised for its thorough research and engaging narrative.

This book is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in military history. The author does an excellent job of drawing on personal accounts from soldiers, which brings the battles to life. The detailed descriptions of tactics and the raw experiences of battle make it a compelling read. However, it does require some prior knowledge of the Napoleonic Wars to fully appreciate the context and significance of the events described.

Quick quotes

    Drawing on memoirs, diaries, and letters of the time, this lively book explores what it was like to be a soldier on a Napoleonic battlefield.

    It does a great job of explaining the tactics and strategies used during the Napoleonic Wars.

    The book is well-researched and provides a unique perspective on the experiences of soldiers.

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