Iron Curtain: From Stage to Cold War

by Patrick Wright

Starting with the original use of "iron curtain" to describe an anti-fire device fitted into theatres, this engaging volume tells the story of how the term evolved into a powerful metaphor that shaped the world for decades before the onset of the Cold War. Along the way, Wright offers
fascinating perspectives on a rich array of historical characters and developments, from the lofty aspirations and disappointed fate of early twentieth century internationalists, through the topsy-turvy experiences of the first travelers to Soviet Russia, to the theatricalization of modern politics
and international relations. And, as Wright poignantly suggests, the term captures a particular way of thinking about the world that long pre-dates the Cold War--and did not disappear with the fall of the Berlin Wall or the collapse of the Soviet Union. Published in paperback to mark the 20th
anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, this brilliant culture history illuminates the life and legacy of this powerful metaphor.

Genres: History, Politics

488 pages, Hardcover

First published October 25, 2007

About the author

Patrick Wright FBA is a British writer, broadcaster and academic in the fields of cultural studies and cultural history. He was educated at the University of Kent and Simon Fraser University in British Columbia, Canada.

Reviews

[Pearl Walters · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love reading history condensed into an easy to read story form. This book captured just that to me. A According to the review, “Iron Curtain” by Patrick Wright provides a nuanced exploration of the cultural and ideological differences between the West and the Soviet Union during the Cold War era. A few key points:

1. Ideological Clash:
The book examines the “ideological clashes that defined the rivalry between the capitalist West and the communist East.” It delves into the strategic maneuverings and power struggles rooted in the opposing economic and political systems of capitalism and communism.

2. Cultural Divide:
Wright’s “attention to detail and his capacity to capture the human element of this historical saga add depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.” The book explores the cultural divide between the two blocs, looking at the personal experiences and narratives of individuals on both sides of the Iron Curtain.

3. Humanizing the Conflict:
A strength of the book highlighted is Wright’s ability to “humanize the conflict.” By delving into the personal stories and perspectives of those affected, the book provides a more nuanced understanding of the cultural and human dimensions of the East-West divide.

4. Comprehensive Perspective:
As mentioned, the book offers a “nuanced perspective,” indicating that Wright offers a balanced and in-depth examination of the complex cultural and ideological factors that shaped the relationship between the West and the Soviet Union during this pivotal period in history.

Overall, “Iron Curtain” provides a rich and multilayered exploration of the cultural and ideological differences that underpinned the Cold War conflict, giving readers a deeper understanding of this crucial chapter in global history. Rating: 4/5

[Hugolane · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not really clear why I took this book out of the library. Probably had to do with the expectation that I would be teaching a course on postwar Europe, and this book doesn't have too much to offer regarding that, despite some nice vignettes early in the book that are followed up at the end. While it does follow the changing use of the phrase, I can't say that was enough to make compelling reading. A good portion of the book seems focused on the rather familiar history of folks on the left who were willfully blind to the realities of Lenin's and Stalin's Soviet Union, along with a few heroes, like Malcolm Muggeridge and Gareth Jones who did, which is what I think got it three stars. Regarding the vignettes, the story of Joseph Cort's decision to move to Czechoslovakia and then his return, is kind of interesting, but it lost me as a story about the Iron Curtain. There were others who made similar decisions whose stories would have been more interesting.

[Elisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I guess the first thing to be said about this book is: pay attention to the title. I was misled (by myself) into thinking this was going to be all about the Cold War. Instead, it's about practically everything that led to the Cold War and how the term "iron curtain" was used way before Churchill's famous speech in Fulton, Missouri.

The events described in this book range from the years 1914 to 1955, approximately.

The most interesting part was learning about where the famous term originally comes from: the theater, where iron curtains were used, during the Victorian era, to prevent fires.

This book is exquisitely written. It reads like a very well-documented spy novel.

There is much information here concerning the trips to Russia made by delegations to find out the "truth" about what was going on in that country after the revolution. The findings show the complexity of international relations and the prejudices of the time.

[Katie]

I should have read the synopsis better. It's not really a book about living behind the iron curtain, but about where the name came from. Maybe I'll come back to it someday.