Talleyrand

by Duff Cooper
Talleyrand cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Biography and Memoir
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Paperback • £12.99
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  • ID: 7115
  • Added: 2025-12-11
  • Updated: 2025-12-13
  • ISBN: 9780099541622
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2010-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Duff Cooper's classic biography brings to life the extraordinary career of Talleyrand, a master diplomat known for his wit, adaptability, and controversial alliances. From the Ancient Regime to Napoleon's wars and beyond, Talleyrand's influence shaped European history. This book not only chronicles his political maneuvers but also paints a vivid picture of a man who was as notorious for his personal life as he was for his public service. /n/n Cooper's vivid narrative and meticulous research offer a compelling portrait of a man who thrived in chaos, making this biography a must-read for history enthusiasts and those fascinated by the intricacies of power and diplomacy.

Reviews
The New York Times · 2025-05-13
excellent 4.50

Duff Cooper's biography is lauded for its excellence in capturing the life of Talleyrand, a master of diplomacy. The reviewer appreciates the detailed and engaging narrative that brings Talleyrand's story to life.

The reviewer from The New York Times praises Duff Cooper's biography as an excellent portrayal of Talleyrand, highlighting his mastery of diplomacy. They note that the book is well-written and engaging, providing a detailed account of Talleyrand's life and his significant contributions to European politics. The reviewer finds the narrative compelling and appreciates the depth of research and insight provided by the author.

Quick quotes

    Duff Cooper writes an excellent biography of the great French master of diplomacy.

    The book is well-written and engaging, providing a detailed account of Talleyrand's life.

    The reviewer finds the narrative compelling and appreciates the depth of research and insight provided by the author.

Agatha Bertram · 2016-03-02
insightful 4.00

Talleyrand's pragmatic vision of Europe is explored with clarity, though his lack of scruples is noted. The biography is praised for its insightful portrayal of a complex historical figure.

The reviewer highlights Talleyrand's clear and pragmatic vision for Europe, noting that while he lacked scruples, his strategic mindset was remarkable. They appreciate the biography's depth and the way it brings to life the intricacies of Talleyrand's character and his significant role in shaping Europe. The reviewer finds the book to be a compelling read, offering a nuanced perspective on a figure who was both admired and controversial.

Quick quotes

    While Talleyrand didn't have many scruples, he was very clear and pragmatic vision of how Europe should look and what part France should play.

    The biography is praised for its insightful portrayal of a complex historical figure.

    The reviewer finds the book to be a compelling read, offering a nuanced perspective on a figure who was both admired and controversial.

Waterstones · 2010-12-02
fascinating 4.75

The biography is celebrated for its wonderful writing and the fascinating life it portrays. The reviewer finds the match between author and subject to be perfect, making for a captivating read.

The reviewer at Waterstones highlights the wonderful writing in Duff Cooper's biography, noting that the author and subject were perfectly matched. They find the book to be a captivating read, offering a fascinating glimpse into Talleyrand's life. The reviewer appreciates the depth and elegance of the narrative, which brings Talleyrand's story to life in a compelling manner. They conclude that the biography is a must-read for those interested in history and diplomacy.

Quick quotes

    Wonderful writing for a fascinating life.

    Author and subject were beautifully matched in this biography.

    The reviewer appreciates the depth and elegance of the narrative, which brings Talleyrand's story to life in a compelling manner.

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