The Russian History of the War of 1813, volume 1

 

I have made no secret of my admiration for Modest Ivanovich Bogdanovich’s epic multi-volume account of Russia’s campaigns against Napoleon (see elsewhere on this blog for my thoughts), and this latest weighty instalment, The Russian History of the War of 1813: The War to Liberate Germany, Volume 1, only reinforces that respect. Translated once again with care and clarity by Peter G.A. Phillips, this volume picks up the Russian narrative precisely where the previous series left off with Napoleon's shattered Grande Armée dragging itself out of the snows of 1812 and the Russians in hot pursuit across the Niemen.

Bogdanovich is, as in the 1812 series, not interested in mere broad strokes. Instead, he dives deep into the movements, motivations, and missteps of the armies and their commanders. He offers a wealth of material that is ideal for historians and wargamers alike; numerous and very detailed orders of battle, precise campaign timelines, and his commentary on personalities and politics. I cannot help but be struck by the tension he draws between the Czar’s political caution and the boldness of his generals as they chased a weakened Napoleon into Central Europe.

The subtitle, ‘The War to Liberate Germany’ is most apt. Much of the volume deals with the delicate diplomatic and military ballet performed by the Allies – Russia, Prussia, and the various German states – during the spring and summer of 1813. I found plenty here for fans of the complexities of coalition warfare, as the shifting allegiances and fragile coordination between the powers come vividly to life. I gained a clear picture of how the Allies gradually unified their efforts, despite significant internal bickering and the always present fear of a resurgent Napoleon.

One aspect of the book I found particularly good is Bogdanovich’s analysis of the spring armistice and the battles that bookend it – Lützen and Bautzen on one end, and the preparations for the great autumn campaign on the other. He pulls no punches in his critique of Allied shortcomings, nor does he shy from praising Napoleon where it is due. But unlike many western histories, there is nothing resembling hero worship where Bonapart is concerned. Bogdanovich is resolutely Russian in his perspective, and frank in his admiration for Kutuzov, Wittgenstein, and even the often-maligned Barclay de Tolly.

For wargamers, the maps can easily be supplemented from online sources or other reference material. They are also available to download and print out from the Helion website. The detail Bogdanovich provides on unit compositions and movements makes this a treasure trove for scenario builders. His vivid accounts of the fighting around Dresden and the manoeuvrings before Leipzig, which I suspect will dominate Volume 2, provide plenty of inspiration for scenario designers.

Peter G.A. Phillips once again deserves immense credit for his work on the translation. The narrative is readable without sacrificing the more formal tone of the original, and the footnotes are invaluable in clarifying obscure references. His notes provide context for both the Russian and western reader, and I never feel lost in the blizzard of regiments and generals.

In summary, if you enjoyed the previous volumes in this monumental series, you’ll find The War of 1813: Volume 1 an essential continuation. If you are new to Bogdanovich, do not be daunted; start with 1812, but know that this volume marks a real turning point in the narrative, as the war shifts from defence to liberation and, ultimately, to vengeance. The Russian bear is on the move westward, and Bogdanovich is its most eloquent chronicler.

Highly recommended for students of the Napoleonic Wars, Russian military history enthusiasts, and anyone with a love of well-told campaign history. I look forward to the next volume.

ISBN: 978-1-804516-78-2 452 pages. Soft back