The Game of Chess

work by Tarrasch

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June 29, 2026

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Siegbert Tarrasch was a German chess master and physician, renowned for his contributions to chess theory. His influential book, The Game of Chess (1935), popularized and developed the theories of Wilhelm Steinitz.1

Tarrasch emphasized the importance of controlling space and piece mobility, often differing with Steinitz on the value of certain pawn structures. He championed the isolated d-pawn, seeing its potential to support advanced pieces as outweighing its perceived weakness. Tarrasch's approach favored active piece play and a strong center, contrasting with the more defensive strategies of some contemporaries. He simplified complex theories into practical rules, such as "develop knights before bishops".2

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Siegbert Tarrasch
…remembered for his books, especially The Game of Chess (1935), which developed and popularized Wilhelm Steinitz’s theories while differing with the master about what constituted a small advantage.
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…remembered for his books, especially The Game of Chess (1935), which developed and popularized Wilhelm Steinitz’s theories while differing with the master about what constituted a small advantage.
Read More