DescriptionMarie Antoinette was a child of 14 when she was made to leave her family and country to become the wife of another child, France's 15-year-old King Louis the XVI. Far from home and suddenly thrust not only into the role of a woman and wife, but of a queen…
DescriptionCentral Europe's ancient civilizations have long been dominated by empires: The Roman Empire; the Habsburg Empire, based in Austria; and more recently, the Soviet Communists. But the decline of communism in the late 20th century has unleashed old resentments, rivalries, and ambitions that have caused yet more war in this troubled region. The World's Political Hot Spots series explains the basis of conflicts in some of the world's most politically sensitive areas. Many of these regions are in today's headlines, and tensions recently have become violent in virtually all of them. Each presentation covers up to 10 centuries of background, revealing how and why today's problems occur.
DescriptionOn April 25th, 1898, the United States declared war on Spain. Less than seven months later, a victorious America claimed the former Spanish colonies of Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippine Islands. To the American diplomat John Hay, the Spanish-Ame…
DescriptionAdolf Hitler had no compassion for his fellow man and yet could beguile them individually or in tens of thousands; he was so narcissistic that he could throw a tantrum to get his way if his supposedly iron will was contradicted. His favoured architect, Albert Speer, compared him to a 6-year-old child. This remark provides a valuable insight when considering Hitler's unthinking cruelty and incomparable destructiveness. In this sometimes spine-chilling audio biography, the dark atmosphere of the age is superbly conveyed, with actor Michael Burrell giving a terrifyingly convincing interpretation of the demonic despot. Hitler is played by Michael Burrell, with other parts played by Michael Kilgarrif and Michael Sheard.
DescriptionThe music of Franz Schubert is cherished for its beautiful flow of melody; melody that runs through the composer's songs and instrumental compositions like a clear and inexhaustible stream. But Schubert was more than just a gifted melodist. He was also the creator of exquisite symphonies in the Classical tradition. The Musically Speaking Conductor's Guides are your link to an appreciation of the greatest classical music ever performed. Let Maestro Gerard Schwarz enrich your classical music listening enjoyment by illuminating the great works of the Masters with revealing commentary and educational insight.
DescriptionMark Twain's last novel, The Mysterious Stranger, took 12 years to finish and is unlike anything else he wrote. This dark story, set in medieval Austria, hinges on unearthly and hidden mental powers. It also gives an insight to the author's psyche during his final days.
