Philip of Spain and the Netherlands

In Philip ofSpain and the Netherlands, C.J. Cadoux discusses the expression of moraljudgements regarding leading figures in major historical events. Indeed,Cadoux, using the case of the Dutch Revolt, questions whether it is possible atall to assess moral quality without adequate knowledge of the relevant facts,at least. First published in1947, Cadoux's approach presents all history, whether national or personal,from a disinterested approach. This consistency of approach allows for a clearand concise depiction of events and persons that is not skewed by anoverbearing opinion. He posits that in the great struggle between Spain and theNetherlands in the sixteenth century, a new ethic of Christian mercy isdiscernible. Cadoux concludes his book by asking the reader 'in whose behaviourthere can be seen some promise of better and humaner things?', reinforcing theinherent difficulty that remains when passing moral judgement.