The Balkans [Modern Library Chronicles]

In this fascinating work, winner of the Wolfson Prize for History Mark Mazower uncovers the history of the Balkans with detail and clarity. He explores the reasons for current conflicts and examines the Balkans as a religious, cultural, and economic melting pot for Europe and Asia. Through Robert O'Keefe's articulate narration, listeners will be absorbed by this rich world.©2000 Mark Mazower

layer cake of history

This provides a good explanation of the term balkanization; it is a bewilderingly complex story of conquests, resentments, competing civilizations, ideologies, and rugged landscapes. It was a bit challenging keeping all the players, invaders, and religious leaders in their respective places. Writing and narration were adequate.

Croatian complexities

A cogent useful history of very complex countries and the historical challenges that we still see today.

Stick with it

I approached this book as someone newly (and limitedly) aware of the fascinating and complex history of the Balkans, but not burdened by a lot of preconceptions otherwise.

The author clearly did not have readers like me in mind. The tone and the positioning of the book - especially in the first few chapters and periodically throughout- is one of refuting unfair criticisms of the regions and its peoples. It gave off strong “me thinks you doth protest too much” vibes.

Perseverance pays off. Later there is a much more informative exploration of the peoples and dynamics, from milestone events to high minded principles. Would have been better as a positive exposition than a defensive but worth it regardless.

Now I understand what all the fuss is about

This recording explains the seeds of strife in the modern Balkans -- why hatred and mistrust has lingered for so long. It's "quick history" but a very illuminating introductory view of the area for someone who has no knowledge of the area.

Very insightful history of the Balkans

It shows how the Ottoman Empire shaped Balkan culture for both better and for worse.