The Collapse of the Third Republic: An Inquiry into the Fall of France in 1940 Audiobook

As an unabridged Audible audiobook, The Collapse of the Third Republic follows William L. Shirer’s account of France’s fall in 1940. Its 48 hours and 10 minutes of listening time allow room for an extended historical narrative. What led to the collapse, beyond the events of 1940 themselves? Grover Gardner narrates the audiobook, bringing Shirer’s work to listeners in spoken form.

Usage tips

This is a substantial listen, well suited to a longer-term history project rather than a quick overview. Its full-length format can fit into a routine of shorter listening sessions or longer stretches devoted to the book. The subject is especially relevant for listeners exploring French history, the political climate of the 1920s and 1930s, and the events leading into World War II.

For a focused listening experience, keep track of the people and political developments as the narrative progresses. That approach can help connect the book’s broad historical scope with its central subject: how the Third Republic came to an end in 1940. The audiobook was published on April 30, 2019.

What you’ll notice day to day

Rather than offering only a concise account of France’s defeat, Shirer’s book traces the wider history of the Third Republic. That depth gives listeners context for considering the political and military landscape alongside the broader atmosphere of the period. Grover Gardner’s narration makes the work available as an audiobook for listeners who prefer to follow a long history through audio.

Buyers often praise the detailed historical treatment, including its account of the political scene in the 1920s and 1930s, and describe the prose as straightforward. Some also find the narrative gripping and appreciate its attention to the population, politics, and military. Reactions to readability are mixed: some listeners find it accessible, while others experience the lengthy, detailed account as laborious. Its appeal is strongest for those interested in sustained historical context, rather than a brief introduction.

Key takeaways

The main distinction is scope. A short World War II overview may serve someone seeking only a quick outline, while this unabridged audiobook is suited to listeners who want a more extensive account centered on the Third Republic and France’s 1940 collapse. Its long runtime and detailed approach give the topic room to unfold, making it a substantial choice for French history and the political background to World War II.

What to clarify

Who wrote the book? William L. Shirer is the author. The audiobook presents his account of the history of the Third Republic and the fall of France in 1940.

Who narrates this edition? Grover Gardner is the narrator, so listeners can follow the book in spoken-audio format.

How long is the audiobook? The unabridged listening length is 48 hours and 10 minutes, useful to know when choosing a long-form history for an ongoing listening schedule.

Should you buy it?

Choose this audiobook if you want more than a compact account of France’s 1940 defeat and are interested in the history and political context that preceded it. Shirer’s extended treatment, unabridged presentation, and Gardner’s narration make it a fitting pick for listeners ready to spend time with a detailed work on the Third Republic and the road to World War II.