Art of War
Although Sun Tzu's Art of War was written more than 2,600 years ago,
it stands today as the pre-eminent work on military strategy, the most brilliant
exposition of armed conflict ever composed. This profound manual was penned in
the age of chariots and spears, yet generals and field commanders have relied
upon its wisdom throughout the ages. Even in this century, the number of staff
college lectures beginning, "Sun Tzu said..." are probably countless. A paradox
indeed, given our dreadful advances in the technology of warfare! Why, then,
would a modern army concern itself with parchment aphorisms from a misty,
forgotten time? Why probe the alien mind of a long-dead Chinese warrior?
That is the greatness of the Art of War. For it happens that the
underlying science of combat remains little changed - the craft of deception,
interpreting terrain, the movement of material and men, the discipline and
motivation of troops. These elements are immutable, and those who must carry the
sword have always turned to Sun Tzu for enlightenment and inspiration. Yet the
Art of War is much more than a guidebook for soldiers, and the precepts
found therein have their application in every quarter of life - from sports and
games to business and finance. Simply put, the sphere of conflict and
competition extend far beyond the battlefield's front line, but into the
boardrooms and bedrooms of every life!
This edition of Sun Tzu's Art of War is taken from the first English
translation by Lionel Giles. It has been painstakingly edited, correcting the
many textual errors that crept in over the years. Not only has Giles' beautiful
rendering of the Chinese original been restored, but his full commentary has
been retained as well. The depth of scholarship displayed by Giles is
breathtaking, and his grasp of the source material incorporated here is without
parallel. After Giles, all later versions of this military classic may be
likened to truncated abridgements, mere trifles for popular consumption. There
is one Sun Tzu, and one Art of War - settle for nothing less!
This ChessCentral eClassic has been enhanced with period art work, and a
special appendix of web resources. Pickard & Son continues to lead the eBook
revolution, so prepare yourself for an experience unlike anything available
elsewhere - a complete synthesis of technology, art, and literature.
Welcome to the Art of War...enjoy and grow wise!
Read an excerpt from Art of War |
