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This set does a fine job of showing the monarchies of Germany, Austria, and Russia from the late 1800's to the end of the first World War when all three ended. To varying degrees all of these rulers shared the common belief that they had a responsibility and accountability to God for the lofty positions they held. This seems strange to most of us living in our own modern age. For an interesting comparison, one should watch the recent movie "The Queen" which portrays Queen Elizabeth II and the British royal family during the death of Princess Diana. There is a touch of that very same attitude that shows through. The debate over the place for the monarchy continues to this day. It can supply a continuing, calming center for the people of a country while the actual workings of government churn away from day to day. In Europe this seems to work rather well. In Spain, the monarchy returned as a planned event upon the death of Franco and appears to be doing well. Certainly Germany, Austria, and Russia might have had a much different and perhaps better history had their royal families continued with some role. That is of course pure speculation. The problems in the Balkan area have only recently begun to be sorted out with great difficulty in the last few years. It was the assassination of the Austrian Archduke by a Serbian which set of the first World War. We can only hope and pray that the current solution will finally bring peace to this area. With today's realities constantly in the news, the problems are not much different than those faced by these royals a century ago. Watching them muddle through to an ultimate failure well beyond their control reminds us that the more things change, the more they remain the same. This set of DVD's provides a chance to see first hand - like the proverbial bug on the wall - just what was going on amongst the insiders during this period of change. While I am sure some of what will be seen is invention, most of what is portrayed agrees well with the written history of the time. Sit back and prepare to both learn and be entertained.Read full review
This series shows the events and rulers whose actions lead up to WWl and also WWll, It is very well done, and entertaining. The only part that dragged somewhat was the episode involvging Lenin and the Bolsheviks debating who should lead their movement. Great cast, solid acting. As a history buff, I loved it!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Fall of Eagles is an absolutely marvelous and brilliantly produced BBC mini-series in 13 parts. Every bit as good and enjoyable as it was when it was originally produced. Timeless. It is a must to see for anyone interested in European history from the mid 1800's to the end of WWI. Look inside three of the major European ruling families, their connections, inter-relationships, their respective governments, political intriques, and scheming diplomats. See how it all led up to their own destruction and the calamity of the Great War
This is a typical BBC series of the era. Low-cost production values but great acting....must be in the British genes....the opening narrations are not especially well done...but the series is fun and makes the WWI characters come alive....
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I have long been a student of the end of the monarchies in Europe, which I think is a very sad thing. I didn't know how this series would portray it all. I was pleased that it was very balanced history, not politically correct nonsense, which I had feared it would be.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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