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French and Germans, Germans and French

A Personal Interpretation of France under Two Occupations, 1914–1918/1940–1944
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( 43 ratings, 6 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
French and Germans, Germans and French by Richard Cobb offers a nuanced exploration of the complex relationships between France and Germany throughout history. The book delves into the social, cultural, and political interactions between the two countries, highlighting both the conflicts and the moments of mutual influence. Cobb's narrative examines how these dynamics have shaped European history, providing insights without delving into spoilers.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by the intricate relationships and cultural exchanges between France and Germany. It provides a unique historical perspective on how these two nations have influenced each other, delving into social, cultural, and political interactions across different periods. This read is ideal for history enthusiasts interested in European dynamics and military history.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A magnificent account of Occupied France in both the First and Second World Wars.

The most difficult and often savage relationship in 20th century western Europe was between the French and the Germans. Twice, cataclysmic wars were fought out on their borders, successfully by the French in 1914-18 and unsuccessfully in 1940. Both wars led to military occupationβ€”for the large block of northern France behind the German trenches in the First World War and ultimately the whole country in the Second.

Richard Cobb's extraordinary book is a meditation on the whole idea of occupation. How do you survive? When do you collaborate? What moral compromises are necessary? Above all, it is a book about the way that history gives a shape and rationality to events which, for those living through them, are completely mysterious and terrifying. For those trapped under German ruleβ€”frightened, confused, malnourishedβ€”what is the right course of action?

French and Germans, Germans and French recreates, with a brilliant mix of wit and sympathy, the story of one of the modern era's great dramas.

Series: Penguin Modern Classics

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

French and Germans, Germans and French by Richard Cobb is celebrated for its vivid and dynamic portrayal of French society, offering an insightful contrast between the lively, grassroots France and the more rigid, bureaucratic side. The book is praised for its innovative approach, using archival evidence to faithfully depict the lived experiences and struggles of ordinary people. Cobb's work is noted for being both an intellectual and emotional journey, providing a rich, nuanced exploration of French and German interactions.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780241351314

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 06 September 2018

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 15.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 205g

Pages: 272

About the Author

Richard Cobb (1919-96) CBE was a British historian and essayist, and professor at the University of Oxford. He was the author of numerous influential works about the history of France, particularly the French Revolution.

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