Mask of Command essays

Mask of Command essays A) What is the subject of the book' John Keegan's Mask of Command examines the unique status of the war general as he is perceived in a variety of historical and cultural settings. As war is a hallmark of all cultures, Keegan points to the universality of the general's persona. However, the author does not treat generalship solely from a psychological perspective. Rather, he sets out to place war generals in context of their times and societies. By analyzing four major historical figures that shaped not only their own cultures but that of neighboring societies and future generations, Keegan backs up his thesis with historical fact. The four war generals Keegan focuses on: Alexander the Great, Wellington, Ulysses S. Grant, and Hitler, each made a unique impact on history but was also a unique product of their particular epoch and culture. Therefore, Keegan shows that each of these major war generals deserves a different historical perspective. For instance, Alexander the Great is described by Keegan as being the quintessential hero. Especially in context of ancient Greek civilization in which heroism brings specific guidelines, Alexander embodied what it means to be a true war hero. His character seamlessly fit into his role as a war hero. In contrast, Wellington proved to be what Keegan calls an anti-hero, as he was reserved and relatively not ambitious, especially when compared with Alexander the Great. Many such generals were simply thrust into their roles as leaders because of their military know-how, intelligence, and prowess, not because they exhibited special character traits that enabled them to obtain glory for their nation. Likewise, Ulysses S. Grant is characterized by Keegan as being un-heroic: small in stature, Grant was notably modest and not prone to theatrics. His distaste for the bloodiness of war also bore testimony to the differences between him and other hist...