A Century of Lions and Donkeys

Abstract

This thesis is about the historiographical analysis of historians writing about the British army’s performance on the Western Front and how the metaphor “Lions led by Donkeys” have been attached to said theme and continued to grow. The thesis comprises a timeline of historical works spanning from the end of the war in 1918, all the way into present day works of history. It will discuss how the British generals and their soldiers are written about through the eras and discusses the way these figures and groups have been treated on the historical scene. Culminating with asking if the “Lions led by Donkeys” moniker holds true and is fair treatment in the eyes of history.