Granville Allen Mawer

Uncommon Valour – A Controversial Study

Granville Allen Mawer has written a fascinating, if somewhat in part controversial history of the Victoria Cross. It is fascinating is that he has charted its history, not just those who have won the honour. It is also an insight into the way in which heroism, and valour is recognised and rewarded, and how that definition has changed over the years. This is the first, and only, analytical study account of the Victoria Cross.

Like any sensible writer who wishes to make this book interesting he has carefully selected his subjects rather than write about all those who have been awarded the cross. What Mawer is trying to do is show the ever changing ethics and ethos behind the awarding of this medal.

From this book you learn why it is set in bronze, while explaining the virtue of valour as if it is some sort movable feast. Why you may not agree with what he argues all the time he makes a fantastic case for each section with the case studies. Some may be upset in the chapter called Trophies of Honour, but with the illumination with the case studies, he makes an excellent case.

I found the chapter called Duty and Disobedience absorbing, and the case studies really illuminated the author argument, which made me stop and think. But he does ask the question at the beginning, What Price Glory? I doubt there will ever be an answer that would do that question justice.

An interesting and fascinating history, that is controversial but that is what makes it so compelling.… (more)