In the twelfth century, Pope Clement III declared: ‘The Pope is resolved to be the lord and master of the world’s game.’ History, however, had other winners in mind.

In this epic narrative, Frederic Raphael explores the most significant moments, ideas and figures that have shaped the world as we know it. His charming vignettes take us on a journey through history: from the reigns of Julius Caesar and Alexander the Great, to Plato, Socrates and the origins of philosophy. We stop off at the turning point of World War Two and the invention of the atom bomb, and, finally, examine the social and cultural divisions of the modern day. The game is not always peaceful – prejudice, cruelty and suffering have always been key players alongside frivolity and community – but it has always been fascinating.

Thought-provoking and propulsive, The World’s Game weaves a complex tapestry from the countless strands of influence and progress that make up the Western world.