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Ruth Scurr

Napoleon: A Life in Gardens and Shadows

Napoleon: A Life in Gardens and Shadows

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  • More about Napoleon: A Life in Gardens and Shadows


Napoleon's gardens range from his childhood olive groves in Corsica to Josephine's menageries in Paris, to the walled garden of Hougoumont at the Battle of Waterloo, and ultimately to St. Helena. This innovative biography follows Napoleon's life through the land he cultivated, offering him a retreat from war and politics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 05 May 2022
Publisher: Vintage Publishing



Glorious Scurr: The Gardens of Napoleon


Simon Schama, Financial Times, has hailed Ruth Scurr as one of the most gifted non-fiction writers alive. In her remarkable book, "Glorious Scurr: The Gardens of Napoleon," Scurr offers a revelatory portrait of the iconic French emperor, exploring his profound love for nature and the gardens that played a central role in his revolutionary life.


Napoleon's gardens span a remarkable trajectory, from his childhood olive groves in Corsica to the enchanting menageries of his wife, Josephine, in Paris. They include the walled garden of Hougoumont during the Battle of Waterloo and, ultimately, his final retreat on St. Helena, where he could gaze upon the sea in his final months.


Through the lens of those who knew him in the shade of his gardens, Scurr follows the dramatic trajectory of Napoleon's life, revealing him as a towering figure made human. She explores his dual nature as the Emperor relentlessly pursuing glory and the man in an old straw hat, leaning on his spade.


"Glorious Scurr" is an immensely satisfying and captivating work. Charming and intelligent, it offers a fresh perspective on Napoleon, shedding light on his complex character and his profound connection to the natural world. The book has received widespread acclaim, earning praise from renowned figures such as Andrew Roberts, TLS, and The Times. It has also been recognized as a Book of the Year in various prestigious publications, including The Times, Sunday Times, Daily Telegraph, Financial Times, Sunday Telegraph, and History Today.


In addition to its literary merits, "Glorious Scurr" has also been honored with a Society for Military History Distinguished Book Award 2022. This prestigious award recognizes the outstanding contributions of books to military history.


In conclusion, "Glorious Scurr: The Gardens of Napoleon" is a must-read for anyone interested in history, literature, and the fascinating life of Napoleon. Ruth Scurr's innovative biography offers a captivating glimpse into the emperor's world, showcasing his love for nature and the gardens that shaped his legacy.

Weight: 348g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784704032

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