Anyone help me understand the EB factions?

[athanaric]

For an introduction, there are also "companion books" that offer a good overview over a given topic, typically called something like "The Cambridge Companion to [blah]". If you speak German, there's the "Beck Wissen" series, which is even more concise.

[Cambyses]

Just play the game, easiest and most effective way to learn anything. Wait until you are EXTREMELY enthusiastic before reading any books.