Notebooks

Notebooks are snapshots from our writers, reflecting on current affairs and underappreciated aspects of culture and history.

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Putin’s new Iron Curtain — will democracies stand up to authoritarian states?

Putin has created a world divided between the democracies and authoritarian countries. This new Iron Curtain line stretches from Kaliningrad on the Baltic Sea to China.

Tim Marshall February 24, 2022

The ancient theatre and ruins in Delphi, Greece.

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Searching for Castalia

The sacred springs of mythology are considered the source of inspiration for the finest poets – both ancient and modern. But like poetry itself, they remain elusive.

Edward Thicknesse February 24, 2022

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How Russia has upgraded its military strategy by drawing deep on history

Historical influences permeate Russian grand strategy. Operation Barbarossa remains seared into its military's psyche. This has important consequences for how Euro-Atlantic policym..

Andrew Monaghan February 21, 2022

Marriage and coronation of King Babar and Queen Celeste. Credit: Historic Images / Alamy Stock Photo.

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The lasting historical appeal of the elephant

Pachyderms have proved remarkably versatile to European history – used, among other things, as symbols of conquering and colonisation, the lives of these creatures, and the way the..

Eve Webster February 18, 2022

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Ancient scandals and power struggles: Succession’s unexpected playfulness with ancient history

The hit TV show inevitably creates literary and historical resonances, but its classical references are always on the money.

Armand D'Angour February 16, 2022

Graffiti of Vladimir Putin on building wall on Maroseyka street in the central Moscow, Russia.

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Putin’s Poison Pill

The Russian president’s ambition to restore his country’s Soviet-era influence is solely in his own interest – at the expense of the nation’s long-term security and prosperity.

Gregory Feifer February 16, 2022