The Bishop's Opening allows White to dictate the pattern of play from as early as the second move. It is ideal for club and tournament players as it leads to positions in which a successful outcome depends on knowledge of the important ideas for both sides. The key plans and strategies are explained to make it easy for those who have limited time to study. A large number of world-class players employ it clearly confirming that it is a highly respected and formidable opening.

The opening was first recommended by Philidor in the 18th century, and then used to great effect by the legendary chess players Paul Morphy and Howard Staunton. More recently, Bent Larsen has inspired a new generation of players to take up this opening with victories at the highest level. This book covers:

• How to play the opening successfully by using model games

• Explanations of the basic elements and strategies for both sides

• The tricks and traps in the opening for both players

• How to play the middlegame by following easy plans

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  List of Content

  005 Introduction

  009 Paulsen Defence

  028 Urusoff Gambit

  042 Boden-Kieseritzky Gambit

  049 Two Knights Defence

  060 Closed Giuoco Piano

  071 Vienna Copycat

  077 Vienna 3. ..Nf6

  091 Vienna Options

  107 Evans Gambit Accepted

  130 Evans Gambit Declined

  144 Unusual Replies

  155 Index of Illustrative Games

  157 Index of Main Variations