The Hollywood History of the World

The Hollywood History of the World is a 1988 book about historical movies written by George MacDonald Fraser.

[1][2] Fraser said he was inspired to write the book when it occurred to him that "in a way, Hollywood has been a great historical educator, because if you or I or anyone else thinks of ancient Rome, you probably think of something you've seen in the movies.

Who would know what a Philistine temple looked like if Victor Mature hadn't pushed one over?

"[3] It divides films into seven main "ages": It was republished in 1996, adding entries on films such as Braveheart, Last of the Mohicans (1992), and Rob Roy (1995).

[4] The book is notable for its juxtaposition of historical portraits against those of the actors who portrayed the subjects, with Fraser frequently offering comments about how well the likeness has been achieved, as in the following from the 1970 film Cromwell:[5]

Charles I , as painted by Sir Anthony van Dyck , was portrayed by Alec Guinness : "Perhaps the best living image ever presented in a historical film; he is Van Dyck's portraits come to life, and if some expert points out that he is slightly too tall, he doesn't look it".
Oliver Cromwell , as painted by Peter Lely , was portrayed by Richard Harris : "He looks nothing like, and can give no believable impression of, that plain, burly, enigmatic Englishman who stares so enigmatically out of his portraits."