Have any of you read *The Story of Civilization* series by Will Durant? I came across a few volumes from my aunt, and would like to know if they're worth reading and are accurate/not outdated

by obedienthoreau
bobroland

I know it sparked my love of history when I was young. The writing is incredible. I loved some of his asides he tossed out there. I can't recall the exact quote, but I recall him talking about Calvin and saying something along the lines of "it's hard to love the man who darkens the human soul with an absurd conception of God".

There are themes that un through the series, and it's clear that Durant believed in an idea of a Western Civilization achieving it's greatness through reason over faith, logic over emotion.

I wouldn't use it as a primary source, since it was meant to be an overview covering a wide variety of subjects, but as a reading experience, I couldn't recommend it higher.

Now I'm going to go online to order the volumes I've lost over the course of the years.

keloyd

YES. Definitely worth a looonnnnng read. He writes very well. One reason the books are so long is that he goes on very-slightly-relevant asides. They're fascinating and add value in ways an orthodox editor may not allow today.

It is also useful as a historical observation of the study of history - how we saw things 6 to 9 decades ago. 2 examples -

(1) when he discusses instances of homosexuality in Greek or Japanese history, he is very matter-of-fact about it, for its time. He's not supportive at all, but also not preachy about others' practices. Some euphamisms were amusing and new to me, e.g. 'Greek friendship' practiced among Samurai.

(2) They were politically correct about a different set of words then. He goes on a bit of a lengthy explanation on why he does not like to use the term 'savage,' then gives good and modern/respectful/thoughtful reasons. He then suggests the word 'primitive.' :| Later, about 20 times, he uses the word 'savage,' but usually in an ironic way to twist the nose of the reader. For example, he discusses disturbing practices of the natives of somewhere, then compares it to some bad practice of the modern world, to take us down a few pegs.

Also, be ready for 'oriental' to mean nearly everyone outside of Europe - Egypt, Mesopotamia, Slavic people, and the Far East. He means no disrespect, so I'm giving him a pass on these little quirks.