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The contents of this book is a 10 lecture series for chess educators, chess players and 'kibitzers'. This is not a primer for the game. This is a 'Chess Appreciation" course.
The introductory sessions prepare the reader for some basic ideas that the teacher hopes the students understand. Then we are introduced to the evolution of ideas from the 6th century to the 21st century. This is a beautiful and exciting adventure of the mind.
We meet Masters of the game who contributed to Chess Ages:
The Golden Age
The Romantic Age
The Classical Age
The Hypermodern Age
The Neoclassical Age
The Eclectic Age
Chess Masters today feel more comfortable as a specific Age player; some reflect ideas from other Ages if they know their opponent's history would be uncomfortable.
Apart from the moves, the Ages reflect the mindset of philosophy, psychology, even the political manipulations of the time.
Introduction to these concepts to school students have had an enormous global effect. Children can now compete for their grade level at their school, their district, their State or Province, their country, and even at the World level.,
As with actors, musicians, poets, authors, mathematicians, etc. there exists a global comradery between all chess players whenever they meet.
With this in mind enjoy the journey.
About the author
Dan Elman at age 4 was taught and influenced by his Russian born father, then by chess players who escaped the pogroms then later the Holocaust.
As a University student (1955-1962) he played for teams in Switzerland and Belgium, competing in several European countries. Upon returning to Canada he won competitions in his City (5 times), and Province (7 times).
Elman retired from competitive play in 1975. His interest then focused on chess organizations, chess camps, and chess lectures.
