Description:
Gretsch's witty and perceptive prose captures, outsider's view of Western Europe in the early nineteenth century, providing a treasure-trove of cultural information about contemporary life
Review Quotes:
"During his long and successful literary career, Nikolai Gretsch wore many hats-a philologist, pedagogue, writer, journalist, editor, and memoirist. The literary journal that he edited was instrumental in bringing all the best authors of the age to the Russian public. But less known are his accomplishments as a travel writer. An avid tourist, Gretsch crisscrossed many parts of Europe and wrote fascinating travelogues that are brimming with keen insights and vivid portraits of the European countryside, its history, and its notable personalities. Now, for the first time, we have his travel letters available in English. Lucidly translated and excellently edited by Ben P. Robertson and Ekaterina Kobeleva, this three-volume set offers us a unique opportunity to journey across post-Napoleonic Europe and see it through the perspicacious eyes of a witty, informed, and sophisticated observer. Highly recommended! - Alexander Mikaberidze, Louisiana State University, US