Author Description
The image of Poland has once again been impressed on European consciousness. Norman Davies provides a key to understanding the modern Polish crisis in this lucid and authoritative description of the nation's history. Beginning with the period since 1945, he travels back in time to highlight the long-term themes and traditions which have influenced present attitudes. His evocative account reveals Poland as the heart of Europe in more than the geographical sense. It is a country where Europe's ideological conflicts are played out in their most acute form: as recent events have emphasized, Poland's fate is of vital concern to European civilization as a whole. This revised and updated edition tackles and analyses the issues arising from the fall of the Eastern Block, and looks at Poland's future within a political climate of democracy and free market.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
How does Poland's complex historical trajectory inform its contemporary political and social identity within the broader European context? Norman Davies, a distinguished historian specializing in Central and Eastern European studies, utilizes a reverse-chronological framework to bridge the gap between post-1945 realities and the deeper historical currents of the nation. By examining long-standing traditions and ideological conflicts, the author argues that Poland serves as a critical microcosm for the tensions defining European civilization.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- Analysis of Polish history from the post-1945 era back to foundational traditions
- Examination of the collapse of the Eastern Bloc and subsequent transition to democracy
- Evaluation of Poland's role in the European free market and political climate
Scope Limits
- Does not provide an exhaustive day-by-day chronicle of every historical event
- Focuses primarily on political and ideological themes rather than social or cultural minutiae
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Scholars and critics frequently cite this work as a foundational text for understanding the geopolitical significance of Poland in the modern era. Readers often note the academic density of the prose, which provides a comprehensive yet accessible overview for those seeking to grasp the complexities of Central European history.
Page Count:
518
Publication Date:
2001-01-01
Publisher:
OUP Oxford
ISBN-10:
0191647136
ISBN-13:
9780191647130
History
Modern History
European History
Poland
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