Eclipse was the code name given by the Allies to their last operation of the war in Europe -- the occupation of Germany. Alan Moorehead's original intention was to chronicle the collapse of German Europe sociologically and politically, psychologically and even emotionally. He was after atmosphere more than fact, especially since Eclipse was written too soon after the fact for responsible history. In the final tally, Eclipse is a commentary. Starting with the collapse in Italy, Moorehead advances through France, the Rhine, finally into the heart of Germany where the last Nazis were finally defeated.