The Reality of War: A Memoir of the Franco-Prussian War and the Paris Commune, 1870-1871

by Leonce Patry, Douglas Fermer (Translator)

Although a relatively unknown campaign, the Franco-Prussian War (1870-71) ultimately had great repercussions during World War I. Patry's firsthand and beautifully written chronicle vividly describes the bloodshed and appalling atrocities committed during the French army's advance to retake the Paris commune, and powerfully critiques the high command's shortcomings and follies. Elegantly translated, this ranks as one of the best examples of war memoirs written in any language, and includes informative biographies of the main participants and other valuable background material.

Genres: France

384 pages, Hardcover

First published December 31, 2001

Reviews

[Manray9 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Leonce Patry's memoirs, based on his wartime diaries, provide a remarkable account of the Franco-Prussian War from the perspective of a French junior officer. There is no assessment of grand strategy or the politico-military situation because, like most junior officers, Patry was consumed with marching to-and-fro in heat, cold or mud; finding quarters for his men or himself; or obtaining something to eat. This is a "real" war story. Patry’s memoirs are compelling history -- never before translated into English. The translator’s annotations are commendable for offering deeper expositions of people, places and events mentioned in the text. The translation, notes and maps are very well done.

[Les · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes, when studying something as large as the Franco-Prussian war, the perspective of a single individual, however isolated from any larger picture, can be tremendously revealing. If you are interested in this conflict and already knowledgeable, a worthwhile addition to your library.