A new edition of a travel literature classic introduced by Geoff Dyer First
published in 1942, Rebecca West's epic masterpiece is widely regarded as
the most illuminating book to have been written on the former state of
Yugoslavia. It is a work of enduring value that remains essential for
anyone attempting to understand the enigmatic history of the Balkan states,
and the continuing friction in this fractured area of Europe. Black Lamb
and Grey Falcon was hailed as a masterpiece when it first appeared in 1942
and became, according to her biographer, Victoria Glendinning, 'the central
book of her life' – a work not only of history, archaeology, politics,
conversation, folklore, prophecy, and the vocation of landscape, but the
work in which Rebecca West formulated her views on religion, ethics, art,
myth and gender. First completed as Yugoslavia was plunged into political
turmoil, followed by invasion and four years of merciless civil and
partisan warfare. It is as relevant today as ever it was.