The Alps: A Cultural History

by Andrew Beattie

The Alps are Europe's highest mountain their broad arc stretches right across the center of the continent, encompassing a wide range of traditions and cultures. Andrew Beattie explores the turbulent past and vibrant present of this landscape, where early pioneers of tourism, mountaineering, and scientific research, along with the enduring legacies of historical regimes from the Romans to the Nazis, have all left their mark.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

272 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found the writing to be rather inviting, keeping me interested throughout the entire book. The topics too were interesting to read through and learn about, leaving me wanting more at points - some of which can be provided by the books mentioned throughout.

The only real flaw I see with this book is the author's tone at points, pushing aside the character of Heidi as well as the Sound of Music as media that isn't worth the setting they're in. He also pushed everything he had to say about Liechtenstein (the reason I /bought/ the book in the first place) into one page, but that's more a personal problem.

[Adaela McLaughlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I traveled to the Tyrol region in Austria and Italy and so bought this book. I am glad I did; I enjoyed it and learned so much. The book covers a lot of topics in a short time and makes them all fascinating. On the other hand, due to the shortness, some topics were not covered in depth. I thoroughly recommend this book if you are interested in the history of the alps back to prehistoric times, including recent history. The book includes earth science as well as cultural history. The fascinating topic of Imagination is covered, in other words, did dragons live in the mountains? Were the mountains just a fearful obstacle to be endured, or were they beautiful and sublime?
Beattie quotes at length Rousseau's only novel, Julie, or the New Heloise (1761). Perhaps it was an important novel at the time but I found it insufferable. As one other reviewer noted, Beattie did not like The Sound of Music, calling it shallow. I find the Sound of Music to be inspiring for one's daily life- overcoming obstacles with confidence and persistence (I Have Confidence, Climb Every Mountain) and showing us the beauty of turning difficulties into positive thoughts (My Favorite Things). But those are minor critiques.

[Andrew Morrow · Rating 3 out of 5]

A decent enough introduction to a vast topic. What really bugged me though was the lack of editing. My copy is full of red pen corrections to spellings, words repeated in error and generally bad syntax. Don't let that put you off if you are interested in the subject matter, I am just becoming a boring old pedantic in old age.

[Ipswichblade · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent book about the history of the alps