Schacksnack

In this video, I present my 24th recommendation for the best middlegame books: Wilhelm Steinitz’s Modern Chess Instructor. This influential work, published by the first World Champion, laid the foundations for what he called the “modern school” – today known as classical chess or the scientific approach.

I discuss how Steinitz’s ideas shaped later authors such as Emanuel Lasker and Max Euwe, and how the principles of equilibrium, accumulation of small advantages and defensive resilience still influence contemporary chess thinking. I also compare Modern Chess Instructor with Lasker’s Manual of Chess, showing how Steinitz’s teachings inspired the next generation of world champions.

This episode is aimed at all chess enthusiasts – players, coaches, historians and lovers of classical chess literature. My purpose is to inform, entertain, teach and inspire, while highlighting one of the most important contributions to chess understanding.

⏱️ Video length: 30 minutes

📘 Series: Best Middlegame Books – Recommendation No. 24

🎥 Presenter: IM Thomas Engqvist