By Grzegorz Podruczny (Original Publication: 2013/2015)
Bastions and Brickwork: Frederick’s Architecture of War
Introduction: The King and His Fortresses is a magnificent and highly specialised study by Grzegorz Podruczny that focuses on a frequently overlooked aspect of 18th-century conflict: the Prussian fortification system. While Frederick the Great is celebrated for his field battles, Podruczny demonstrates that the King was equally obsessed with the engineering of his strongholds. This volume provides a detailed analysis of the construction, design, and strategic role of fortresses like Schweidnitz, Neisse, and Glatz, which formed the rigid skeleton of Prussian Silesia.
The 6mm Connection: From a wargaming perspective, this book is a treasure trove for 6mm terrain builders. The scale of 6mm is uniquely suited to representing the sprawling geometric complexity of 18th-century star forts without overwhelming the tabletop. Podruczny’s technical drawings and site plans provide the perfect reference for creating accurate siege scenarios or "fortress-adjacent" battlefields. Understanding the layout of these works influences how I place my 3-gun artillery batteries when defending a fixed position, and the sheer scale of the Prussian engineering efforts justifies the use of overall commander stands to oversee these massive siege operations.
Historical Insight: The true "lightbulb moment" in this text is the revelation of how Frederick viewed fortresses not just as static defensive points, but as "offensive anchors." Podruczny explains how the King used these sites to store the vast quantities of grain and powder necessary for his rapid-strike campaigns. Learning about the specific vulnerabilities and the "active defence" strategies employed by the Prussian garrisons has significantly changed how I approach siege-style games; it turns the fortress from a passive obstacle into a living, breathing participant in the campaign.
Conclusion: The King and His Fortresses rounds out our understanding of the Seven Years' War by moving the focus away from the open field and into the trenches and ramparts. It is an essential volume for any wargamer who wants to understand the logistical and engineering genius that allowed Prussia to hold onto its conquests despite being surrounded by enemies. It adds a fascinating layer of masonry and mortar to the Third Silesian War project.
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