Servitude and Grandeur of Arms consists of reflections, arguments and autobiographical anecdotes surrounding three longer narratives. These include an episode on the high seas with Admiral Collingwood, a glimpse into Marie-Antoinette's court, scenes from the campaign of 1814 against the Russians and the Paris revolution of 1830, and an overheard conversation between Napoleon and the Pope - part of what is probably the most telling and dramatic portrait of the emperor in literature. Yet these are essentially the stories of gruff and grizzled veterans, bound by a stern code of duty and honour, who reveal unexpected depths of humanity. De Vigny vividly conveys the savagery of war, the dreariness, deprivation and discipline of military service, but also its comradeship, stoicism and fundamental uprightness. The result is a strange and subtle masterpiece.
- ISBN10 014044663X
- ISBN13 9780140446630
- Publish Date 29 August 1996
- Publish Status Unknown
- Out of Print 15 November 2002
- Publish Country GB
- Imprint Penguin Books Ltd
- Edition New edition
- Format Paperback (B-Format (198x129 mm))
- Pages 208
- Language English