History of Friedrich II of Prussia, Volume 19

Name: History of Friedrich II of Prussia, Volume 19
Author: Thomas Carlyle

The work chronicles the tumultuous events surrounding Friedrich II of Prussia during the Seven Years' War, particularly focusing on the year 1759. It details the strategic positioning of various armies in Europe, highlighting the complex interplay of military maneuvers, political ambitions, and the personal struggles of Friedrich as he faces overwhelming odds. The narrative begins with a vivid description of the winter quarters of five armies in Germany, emphasizing the precarious situation of Friedrich's forces against a coalition of enemies, including Austria, France, and Russia. The text reflects on the hopes for peace that Friedrich harbors amidst the ongoing conflict, juxtaposed with the relentless pursuit of war by his adversaries. As the year progresses, the narrative shifts to the disastrous campaign of 1759, marked by Friedrich's attempts to regain the initiative through aggressive tactics. However, he finds himself increasingly on the defensive, struggling to maintain his kingdom against a tide of enemies. The text captures the emotional toll of warfare on Friedrich, detailing his isolation, grief over personal losses, and the burden of leadership during a time of crisis. The work also delves into the financial strains of the war, illustrating Friedrich's resourcefulness in managing the Prussian economy under duress. It highlights his reliance on various means to fund the war effort, including the extraction of resources from occupied territories and the issuance of base currency, which ultimately leads to economic challenges. The climax of the narrative occurs during the Battle of Kunersdorf, where Friedrich's forces engage in a fierce confrontation with the Russian and Austrian armies. The battle is depicted as a turning point, showcasing both the valor and the tragic failures of the Prussian troops. Despite initial successes, the Prussian army suffers significant losses, leading to a retreat that marks a critical moment in the war. In the aftermath, the text reflects on the broader implications of the battle for Friedrich and Prussia, as well as the shifting dynamics of power in Europe. The narrative concludes with Friedrich's determination to continue fighting despite the setbacks, underscoring his resilience and commitment to his kingdom. Overall, the work presents a detailed and dramatic account of a pivotal year in the life of Friedrich II, capturing the complexities of war, leadership, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

By Thomas Carlyle · First published 1864 · Genre: Biography, History, Political Science · 9 chapters · 127,107 words

First lines

The posting of the Five Armies this Winter -- Five of them in Germany, not counting the Russians, who have vanished to Cimmeria over the horizon, for their months of rest -- is something wonderful, and strikes the picturesque imagination. Such a Chain of Posts, for length, if for nothing else! From the centre of Bohemia eastward, Daun's Austrians are spread all round the western Silesian Border and the southeastern Saxon; waited on by Prussians, in more or less proximity. Next are the Reichsfolk; scattered over Thuringen and the Franconian Countries; fronting partly into Hessen and Duke Ferdinand's outskirts: -- the main body of Duke Ferdinand is far to westward, in Munster Country, vigilant upon Contades, with the Rhine between. Contades and Soubise, -- adjoining on the Reichsfolk are these Two French Armies: Soubise's, some 25,000, in Frankfurt-Ems Country, between the Mayn and the Lahn, with its back to the Rhine; then Contades, onward to Maes River and the Dutch Borders, with his face to the Rhine, -- and Duke Ferdinand observant of him on the other side. That is the "CORDON of Posts" or winter-quarters this Year. "From the Giant Mountains and the Metal Mountains, to the Ocean; -- to the mouth of Rhine," may we not say; "and back again to the Swiss Alps or springs of Rhine, that Upper-Rhine Country being all either French or Austrian, and a basis for Soubise? " [Archenholtz, i. 306.] Not to speak of Ocean itself, and its winged War-Fleets, lonesomely hovering and patrolling; or of the Americas and Indies beyond!

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History of Friedrich II of Prussia, Volume 19 is listed on Textopian as a novel by Thomas Carlyle, dated 1864 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Thomas Carlyle
Date: 1864 CE
Language: English
Genres: Biography, History, Political Science, Philosophy, Literary Non-Fiction
Length: 127,107 words
Structure: 9 chapters, 588 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Genres

Biography — The book provides a detailed account of the life and reign of Friedrich II of Prussia.
History — It explores historical events and contexts during Friedrich II's rule.
Political Science — The text examines the political strategies and governance of Friedrich II.
Philosophy — Carlyle's work reflects on the philosophical implications of leadership and power.