Volume I of a projected six-volume set designed to stimulate critical thinking about major historical events by illuminating opposing viewpoints and perspectives on heavily debated questions. Each volume will contain about 50 entries that begin with a brief overview summarizing the controversy followed by two or more point-counterpoint essays; primary source documents critical to the debate; a list of key players involved in the event; photographs and drawings of the pertinent individuals, sites, objects or documents; and suggestions for further reading. Includes a chronology. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR.
The idea of the crusade remains a potent one. In this compelling account, Jonathan Phillips moves away from modern constructs and possible misconceptions of the crusades, to explore the origins and development of the idea in its historical context. Through a mixture of narrative and thematic chapters, the book provides both an outline of key events and issues in the history of the crusades to the Holy Land, and an insight into new areas of research. Supporting documents include letters, charters, poetry, songs and art. An intriguing subject brought vividly to life.
This new and considerably expanded edition of The Crusades, 1095-1204 couples vivid narrative with a clear and accessible analysis of the key ideas that prompted the conquest and settlement of the Holy Land between the First and the Fourth Crusade. This edition now covers the Fourth Crusade and the Sack of Constantinople, along with greater coverage of the Muslim response to the Crusades from the capture of Jerusalem in 1099 to Saladin’s leadership of the counter-crusade, culminating in his struggle with Richard the Lionheart during the Third Crusade. It also examines the complex motives of the Italian city states during the conquest of the Levant, as well as relations between the Frankish settlers and the indigenous population, both Eastern Christian and Muslim, in times of war and peace. Extended treatment of the events of the First Crusade, the failure of the Second Crusade, and the prominent role of female rulers in the Latin East feature too. Underpinned by the latest research, this book also features: - a ‘Who’s Who’, a Chronology, a discussion of the Historiography, maps, family trees, and numerous illustrations. - a strong collection of contemporary documents, including previously untranslated narratives and poems. - A blend of thematic and narrative chapters also consider the Military Orders, kingship, warfare and castles, and pilgrimage. This new edition provides an illuminating insight into one of the most famous and compelling periods of history.
A comprehensive history of the crusades ranges from the eleventh century to modern times and includes commentary on the art and architecture associated with the crusades and insights into the history of the knightly orders.
A potent mixt of salvation and adventure, the Crusades were one of the most prominent features of medieval Europe, reflecting and directing religious and secular movements in Western society for half a millennium. Christopher Tyerman offers the first book-length study of the role of England in the Crusades. Focusing on the courtroom and council chamber rather than the battlefield, he demonstrates the impact of the Crusades on the political and economic functions of English society. Drawing on a wide range of archival, chronicle, and literary evidence, Tyerman brings to life the royal personalities, foreign policy, political intrigue, taxation and fundraising, and the crusading ethos that gripped England for hundreds of years. "An ambitious task to undertake. . . . Tyerman has done the job not only thoroughly but brilliantly. . . . A highly impressive study, deserving rich praise and wide readership."—Norman Housley, Times Literary Supplement "Christopher Tyerman has written a wonderful book. . . . [He] manages to confront thorny issues in scholarship and to contribute new perspectives on them."—William Chester Jordan, American Historical Review "Tyerman provides valuable insights into preaching, recruitment, and the funding and organisation of crusading expeditions. . . . Fascinating new perspectives on English history."—Edward Powell, Sunday Times "Impressive. . . . Tyerman's research has yielded valuable evidence, and his admirably lucid argument sheds new light on a complex and bloody period in English history."—Virginia Quarterly Review
