Masters of War: Classical Strategic Thought

Handel's "Masters of War" is a comprehensive integration of the classical strategic theorists, to include Clausewitz, Sun Zi, Mao, Machievelli, and others.Handel procedes by topics, comparing the different theorists thoughts and the context of each theorist. He meticulously cites every point with extensive use of quotes. He places different classical author's words side by side to highlight parallels and differences. For example, in the discussion of deception, Handel draws on Sun Zi, Thucydides, Clausewitz, and Jomini to demonstrate the similarities and illustrate the differences in the different authors attitudes towards deception. He has a whole chapter for analyzing Corbett and Mahan and their relationship to Clausewitz, Jomini, and Sun Zi.The chapter on military leadership is most relevant, and weighs the merits of the different opinions on the qualities of a leader well. The discussion and comparison of opinions on the role and importance of a staff are thought provoking and balanced.Handel brings all the threads together in the conclusion "Toward a Unified Theory of War". He posits that the biggest difference between the authors is the level of war they focus on, rather than any irreconcilable difference in positions. Intriguing and bold, considering that the authors span over twenty four centuries of warfare.If you are going to read a single book on strategy, this is the one.E.M. Van Court

Very interesting read. Great break down and amalgamation of key strategic theory. Disappointed that many of the charts in the Kindle edition are blurry and unreadable. In the print edition the Clausewitz System diagram in appendix D is divided in half making it difficult to follow. Brilliant information but not the best execution. Really was hoping the issue would have been resolved in the digital version.

This is one of my best book buys in a long time. It offers incredible insight on how war is waged and won. Must buy

This a one the best books on strategy I have ever picked up. It gives a great breakdown and comparison of other great strategist such as Clausewitz and Sun Tzu.

I liked the book so much I ordered a hardbound edition. Sadly the hardback is a print-to-order version of poor quality paper and print, with the five fold-out color charts now reprinted in B&W, split onto two regular pages each, and almost illegible. For a much higher price for the hardbound I received a much poorer quality edition. I returned it.

Excelent book. Fast delivery. A+++

Great quality!

Excellent

It is a collection, with commentary. I had already dissected much of clausewitz, jomini and sun tzu's works. I found the notes and bibliography most enjoyable.

Good.

Book was in fair condition.