Historian/novelist Foote’s masterly work has been culled from his critically acclaimed three-volume narrative of the Civil War.
Complete with detailed maps, “Stars in Their Courses” brilliantly recreates the three-day conflict: It is a masterly treatment of a key great battle and the events that preceded it—not as legend has it but as it really was, before it became distorted by controversy and overblown by remembered glory.
“I do not want to make this charge,” Longstreet said; “I do not see how it can succeed. I would not make it now but that General Lee has ordered it and expects it.”
“Stars in Their Courses: The Gettysburg Campaign” is a masterpiece of historical non-fiction that delves into the pivotal events surrounding the Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the American Civil War. Written by Shelby Foote, a renowned historian and novelist, this book is a compelling and meticulously researched account that brings to life the complexities and nuances of one of the most significant battles in American history.
Foote’s narrative is both engaging and informative, weaving together the stories of the key players, including Robert E. Lee, George Meade, and Joshua Chamberlain, among others. The author’s use of primary sources, including letters, diaries, and official records, adds a layer of authenticity to the story, allowing readers to experience the battle through the eyes of those who fought it.
One of the strengths of “Stars in Their Courses” is its ability to balance the big picture with the small, humanizing details that make history come alive. Foote’s descriptions of the battle itself are vivid and intense, conveying the chaos and brutality of war. At the same time, he also explores the strategic decisions, political maneuvering, and personal relationships that shaped the course of the campaign.
Throughout the book, Foote’s writing is characterized by its clarity, precision, and elegance. His prose is engaging and accessible, making the complex events of the Gettysburg Campaign easy to follow, even for readers without a deep background in Civil War history.
If there is a criticism to be made, it is that “Stars in Their Courses” is a dense and detailed work that may overwhelm some readers. The book is not a quick or easy read, and it requires a significant investment of time and attention. However, for those willing to immerse themselves in Foote’s narrative, the rewards are well worth the effort.
In conclusion, “Stars in Their Courses: The Gettysburg Campaign” is a landmark work of historical non-fiction that is essential reading for anyone interested in the American Civil War. Foote’s masterful storytelling, meticulous research, and engaging writing style make this book a must-read for historians, scholars, and general readers alike. If you’re looking for a gripping and informative account of one of the most pivotal events in American history, look no further than “Stars in Their Courses”.