A Distant Mirror

The Calamitous 14th Century

Barbara Wertheim Tuchman

The book provides a historical account of the 14th century in Europe, focusing on the social, political, and military turmoil of the era, including the Black Death, the Hundred Years' War, and the Papal Schism, through the lens of the French nobleman Enguerrand de Coucy VII. It explores how these events reflect the period's chaos and the far-reaching consequences for European society.

See full summary

The March of Folly

From Troy to Vietnam

Barbara Wertheim Tuchman

The book examines historical instances where leaders pursued policies contrary to their own interests, despite the availability of feasible alternatives. It explores case studies ranging from the Trojan Horse to the Renaissance Popes' provocation of the Protestant Reformation, and the British mismanagement of the American colonies, culminating in an analysis of the United States' involvement in Vietnam.

See full summary