A concise study of one of the most extraordinary and dramatic periods in world history
Considers the effects of the Crusades on
ordinary life in Western Europe and the parts played by ordinary men
and women in the conflict
Explores the appropriation of the term `Crusade` for contemporary political ends
Crusading
fervour gripped Europe for over 200 years, creating one of the most
extraordinary, vivid episodes in world history. Whether the Crusades
are regarded as the most romantic of Christian expeditions, or the last
of the barbarian invasions, they have fascinated generations ever
since, and their legacy of ideas and imagery has resonated through the
centuries, inspiring Hollywood movies and great works of literature.
Even today, to invoke the Crusades is to stir deep cultural myths,
assumptions and prejudices.
Yet despite their powerful hold on
our imaginations, our knowledge of them remains obscured an
distorted by time. Were the Crusaders motivated by spiritual rewards,
or by greed? Were the Crusades an experiment in European colonialism,
or a manifestation of religious love? How were they organized and
founded?
With
customary flair and originality, Christopher Tyerman picks his way
through the many debates to present a clear and lively discussion of
the Crusades; bringing together issues of colonialism, cultural
exchange, economic exploitation, and the relationship between past and
present.
