The Civil War: A Narrative is a three-volume, 2,968-page, 1.2 million-word history of the American Civil War written by Shelby Foote. It's known for its literary style, drawing on Foote's background as a novelist to create a compelling narrative of the war. The work is divided into three volumes: Fort Sumter to Perryville, Fredericksburg to Meridian, and Red River to Appomattox.
Key Features of the Work:
Narrative Approach:
Foote's background as a novelist is evident in his storytelling approach, which emphasizes the human experience of the war. 
Scope:
The work covers the entire Civil War period, from the initial secession crisis to the end of Reconstruction. 
Military Focus:
While touching on political and social themes, the primary focus is on military history, with detailed accounts of battles and campaigns. 
Literary Style:
Foote's prose is known for its vivid descriptions, capturing the sights, sounds, and emotions of the war. 
Three Volumes:
The work is divided into three volumes, each covering a distinct period of the war. 
Volume 1: Fort Sumter to Perryville
: This volume covers the early stages of the war, from the secession crisis to the Battle of Perryville. 
Volume 2: Fredericksburg to Meridian
: This volume focuses on the pivotal year of 1863, including the Battle of Gettysburg and the Vicksburg campaign. 
Volume 3: Red River to Appomattox
: This volume covers the final years of the war, including Sherman's march to the sea and the surrender at Appomattox.