Excerpt from Outlines of European History

The study of European History as a whole has long been known in the schools of the Continent and the United States of America, but it has only lately been introduced into England. It must be still considered as in the experimental stage so far as methods are concerned, though few will doubt that the subject in some form or other must ultimately be recognized as forming an important part in any scheme of education. It is true of history, though not perhaps of all studies, that the whole is greater and better than its parts. The greatest prize that awaits the student of history is not a knowledge of antiquarian detail, but the wide outlook over all the ages, and an understanding of the chief phases through which civilization has passed and of the chief influences that have moulded it.

This Pisgah vision comes to most, if it comes at all, after long study. Is it possible to attain to it by any more summary process? Can these general views be usefully put before a young student? Is it possible to teach General European History as a school or college subject? The fact that I have ventured to write this little book shows that I answer these questions in the affirmative. The ordinary text-book of English History requires generalizations which are as difficult to make as those which are implied in a sketch of European History.

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