Incident of the French Camp From ancient India to the computer age, the military has used chess as both a metaphor and even as training for warfare. Chess began in 6th Century in India as a -square board game, called Chaturanga, precisely modelled on the military forces of the day. Before you begin to listen to the poem, let’s know about the interesting background of the incident of the French camp. Napoleon Bonaparte ( – ) was originally an officer in the French army became the army chief and a legendary warrior, who later known for his military skill and genius.
The poem ‘Incident of the French Camp’ narrates an actual incident in the war in between France and Austria, led by Napoleon. Napoleon was standing on a little mound, eagerly looking towards Ratisbon. His mind was oppressed with anxious thoughts and he said to himself that all his ambitious plans would come to nothing if Lannes failed to storm Ratisbon. Warm Up Have you played chess or watched the game carefully?
Now identify the chess pieces and complete the table below. Discuss the role of each piece in the game. 12th - - Incident of the French Camp Page The poem describes an act of chivalry, gallantry, patriotism and sacrifice on the part of a young French soldier. You know, we French stormed Ratisbon : A mile or so away, On a little mound , Napoleon Stood on our storming-day; With neck out-thrust , you fancy how, Legs wide, arms locked behind, As if to balance the prone brow Oppressive with its mind.
Just as perhaps he mused , ‘My plans That soar, to earth may fall, Let once my army-leader Lannes Waver at yonder wall’, – Out ’twixt the battery-smokes there flew A rider, bound on bound Full-galloping: nor bridle drew Until he reached the mound. Then off there flung in smiling joy, And held himself erect By just his horse’s mane, a boy: You hardly could suspect – (So tight he kept his lips compressed , Scarce any blood came through) You looked