Narrative history in the grand manner, deeply and passionately informed by a wide understanding of every aspect of the topic Here is narrative history in the grand manner, deeply and passionately informed by a wide understanding of every aspect of the topic; the historical circumstances and political conditions of the contending adversaries, the strategic thinking and the personalities of the military commanders, the tactical manoeuvring on the field of battle, the role of armaments and technology, and the performance of the soldiers.