Publisher: Everyman Chess, 2000
Edition: Paperback large Pages: 160 Language: English
Up-to-date overview of two dynamic systems to counter the Ruy Lopez. Although a few earlier games are known, even from the 19th century, the Archangel Variation 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5 a6 4.Ba4 Nf6 5.0-0 b5 6.Bb3 Bb7 derives its name from a group of players from the Russian city of Arkhangelsk, who tested the line in the early sixties. Later it became a favourite with Polish players, and in this tradition Krzysztof Panczyk is no surprising choice when it comes to writing this monograph. In 120 pages he packs together a great amount of information on this sharp tactical opening line.
Although the twin lines 6...Bc5 (New Archangel) and 5...Bc5 (Mller Defence) are in fact older than the Archangel, both had been forgotten for many decades. The Nineties saw a revival of these lines, and with his contribution of 32 pages to the book John Emms is the first theorist to present an overview, with strong emphasis on the latest developments.
