Legends, Lies, and Cherished Myths of World History

Richard Shenkman

New York: Harper Collins, 1993; Pages: 301

After debunking the myths of American history in a book with a similar title, Shenkman turns to some pervasive legends of European history (despite the title the book is decidedly Eurocentric). While most of the established facts that contradict the popular lies are known to professional historians and those, like me, who like to dabble in the art, Shenkman wanders into subjects not usually found in history books. Take, for example, the entry on Frankenstein, or the Hollywood portrayal of "historical truth."

The book comprises twelve parts ranging from ancient times (there was no Trojan War and Cleopatra was not beautiful), through the "Dark" Ages (a misnomer coined by the enlightened Renaissance people), through the scandalous genealogy of the English and French crowns, and into the two world wars. There are also lengthy entries on sex (pretty good), religion, famous people, and various characters from the literature. An altogether fascinating volume worth the couple hours of reading.

The writing style is perhaps the strongest suit of this collection. Shenkman is irreverent, hilarious, and quick-witted. The prose is easy to read, with crisp sentences and none of the pseudo-scholarly mumbo-jumbo that sometimes plagues professionals. The book is similar to his other works, and also reminds me of James Welles' "Story of Stupidity," which was wider in scope, but equally funny. If I had to recommend particular parts of the book, it would be "Part Two: The Dark Ages," "Part Four: The Facts of Life," and "Part Ten: Religion." The book can be read in any order, not necessarily sequentially, although you might lose some continuity if you do so. Anyway, a pleasing and relaxing reading that may even make the reader more conversant in and intelligent about our history. Recommended.

March 25, 2000. BLS

@BOOK{shenkman-93:world,
    TITLE     = {Legends, Lies, and Cherished Myths of World History},
    AUTHOR    = {Richard Shenkman},
    YEAR      = {1993},
    PUBLISHER = {Harper Collins},
    ADDRESS   = {New York},
    ISBN      = {0-06-016803-X},
    NOTE      = {Pp. 301}
}