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*.*
