Summary of The Splendid and the Vile

The Splendid and the Vile is a gripping, in-depth look at Winston Churchill's first year as Prime Minister of Great Britain during the early days of World War II. Written by Erik Larson, the book follows Churchill's life from his initial appointment in May 1940 through May 1941 as he leads a divided nation against the seemingly invincible forces of Nazi Germany. Larson provides a detailed account of Churchill's dedication to the cause of freedom, showing how the Prime Minister's courage and conviction inspired the British people to endure the darkest days of the war. He also reveals the behind-the-scenes machinations of Churchill's inner circle—his wife, his son, his staff, his generals, his spies, and his powerful friends—as they worked to maintain national morale and build a coalition of allies. Through it all, Larson paints a vivid portrait of a leader who assumed the mantle of a nation's salvation and never faltered in his determination to see Britain through to victory.