If you espy this one, be sure to catch it!
The Enemy Within: A History of Espionage by Terry Crowdy (Osprey Publishing $24.95)
Timothy Baghurst
Issue date: 3/26/07 Section: Life & Style
Any historian will be familiar with some of the more famous instances of espionage in history. From the 12 spies that Moses sent into the Promised Land to the use of espionage in the modern era, author Terry Crowdy details the history of espionage through a variety of characters, methods and examples. The author begins with the earliest accounts of espionage found within the Bible. Judas, for example, was willing to sell out Jesus for his silver.
Monetary gain is but one of the reasons why an individual would risk all to betray another, the author says. Crowdy gradually takes the reader through history providing evidence and examples of how those involved in espionage changed the course of battles, wars, and the course of history. Indeed, he explains how intricate espionage can be, citing examples of spies, counterspies, and counter-counter spies.
Interestingly, Crowdy also highlights the significant role women have played within espionage throughout history. Delilah, for example, worked for the Philistines to discover the secret to Samson's strength. Others used their wiles to influence those in power, or gained access to areas that were unattainable by men. Finally, the author discusses how technology has reduced the impact of the traditional role of the spy and some of the more recent examples of espionage. This is an excellent source covering the history of espionage from beginning to the present day.
This is not an analytical work, but rather an historical account. As such, it is extremely readable, entertaining and educational. It is one of the better nonfiction books this reviewer has read in recent times. Readers might be surprised by the audacity of some spies, the complexity of some situations and the influence that espionage had on the eventual outcome of many political and military events in history.
Monetary gain is but one of the reasons why an individual would risk all to betray another, the author says. Crowdy gradually takes the reader through history providing evidence and examples of how those involved in espionage changed the course of battles, wars, and the course of history. Indeed, he explains how intricate espionage can be, citing examples of spies, counterspies, and counter-counter spies.
Interestingly, Crowdy also highlights the significant role women have played within espionage throughout history. Delilah, for example, worked for the Philistines to discover the secret to Samson's strength. Others used their wiles to influence those in power, or gained access to areas that were unattainable by men. Finally, the author discusses how technology has reduced the impact of the traditional role of the spy and some of the more recent examples of espionage. This is an excellent source covering the history of espionage from beginning to the present day.
This is not an analytical work, but rather an historical account. As such, it is extremely readable, entertaining and educational. It is one of the better nonfiction books this reviewer has read in recent times. Readers might be surprised by the audacity of some spies, the complexity of some situations and the influence that espionage had on the eventual outcome of many political and military events in history.
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