Who was the 'Darling Child of Victory'? What characterised his style as a commander? What were his greatest moments? And why was he such an inveterate looter?

Marshal Massena is the focus of the latest episode as the Marshals series makes a welcome return to the Napoleonic Wars Podcast. Rachael Stark holds court as we discuss how he compared to other marshals and to Napoleon himself, the relationship between the two men, and the peaks and troughs of his career, stymied by ill health.

This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Marshal Massena, a prominent figure in the Napoleonic Wars. The discussion covers his early life, rise through the military ranks during the French Revolution, his command style, significant victories in Italy, and the challenges he faced during the Peninsular War. The conversation also explores his retirement, return to service, and the impact of his health on his later years, culminating in his death in 1817. Throughout, the complexities of his character and the perceptions of his legacy are examined.

Chapters

00:00 The Legacy of Marshal Massena

03:00 Early Life and Military Beginnings

05:45 Rise to Prominence in the Revolutionary Army

09:09 Command Style and Relationships with Peers

12:10 Key Contributions in the Italian Campaigns

14:53 Controversies and Command Challenges

18:03 Strategic Brilliance in Switzerland

20:46 Post-Genoa and Retirement Life

23:55 Return to Service and the Peninsular War

35:12 The Impact of Mental and Physical Strain

36:22 Injuries and Their Consequences

37:15 Elevation to Prince of Essling

38:48 Challenges in the Peninsula War

40:34 Expectations and Realities of Command

42:08 Resource Limitations in Spain

43:45 Reputation After the Peninsula War

46:20 Napoleon's Disappointment with Messena

50:31 Return to Napoleon's Side in 1815

54:54 The End of Messena's Military Career

58:51 Legacy and Historical Perception