Three Ships

Abstract

This introductory chapter provides key background on the Eastern Crisis, such as on the diplomatic and military narrative. It introduces the main protagonists, including the French premier Adolphe Thiers, Lord Palmerston, Metternich, and his Prussian counterpart Werther. The introduction fits the book within existing works on the crisis, emphasising the role of ideas alongside straightforward diplomatic bargaining. Finally, it touches on the European Oriental renaissance, on the relationship between ideology and the European concert system, and the role and nature of the contemporary press and public opinions.