William the Silent

William of Nassau, Prince of Orange, 1533-1584

In this book, first published in 1944, the distinguished historian C. V. Wedgwood takes as her subject here the figure of William, Count of Nassau and Prince of Orange, who led the revolt of the Netherlands against the Spain of Philip II. The book is not only a masterpiece of biographical writing but a rich portrait of an age—a period of political, religious, and economic ferment that dramatically shaped the history of early modern Europe.

‘A reliable and well-balanced history of great events. Miss Wedgwood tells simply and accurately a series of moving, romantic and most important events, the first effective stand made in Europe against Spain and the Inquisition, the foundation of the Dutch Republic on the basis of freedom; and she tells these great historical events in the form of a biography centered round the figure of one man.’—G. M. Trevelyan, [London] Sunday Times

‘A very fine book. There is all the human interest of William’s life with all the historic importance for us of his achievement.’—A. L. Rowse, Observer

‘Miss Wedgwood, an authority on the period, has told William’s life story persuasively, with singular economy and charm….Superior scholarship, penetrating insight, lucid prose.’—Geoffrey Bruun