Armageddon—And After

"Armageddon—And After" by W. L. Courtney is a socio-political treatise written during the early 20th century, specifically in the context of World War I. The book reflects on the catastrophic impacts of the war and advocates for a new vision of international relations, one that is founded on idealism, reform, and a rejection of militaristic power. Courtney aims to galvanize the younger generation to challenge outdated, ineffective systems of governance and to envision a more just society that prioritizes ethical principles over brute force. The opening of the text presents the author’s dedication to the "young idealists" who will shape the future in the wake of the Great War. He articulates a vision of post-war Europe and emphasizes the need for reform to avoid the repetitions of past mistakes that led to such widespread devastation. The discourse traverses topics such as military power, nationalism, and the moral responsibilities of nations, portraying a steadfast belief that constructive change is essential for a lasting peace. Overall, the introductory portion sets the stage for a call to action, encouraging readers to engage with the pressing issues of their time through a lens of youthful optimism and reformist zeal. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Leonard Courtney was an English writer, philosopher and journalist. From 1876 to 1890 he taught philosophy at New College, Oxford University. From 1890 until his death in 1928 Courtney had a successful career as a journalist, editor and drama and literary critic, working principally for The Daily Telegraph and The Fortnightly Review. He was a published author of over twenty works and a playwright.