What is the relationship between the medieval crusades and the problems of the modern Middle East? Were the crusades the Christian equivalent of Muslim jihad? In this sweeping yet crisp history, Thomas F. Madden offers a brilliant and compelling narrative of the crusades and their contemporary relevance. Placing all of the major crusades within their medieval social, economic, religious, and intellectual environments, Madden explores the uniquely medieval world that led untold thousands to leave their homes, families, and friends to march in Christ's name to distant lands. From Palestine and Europe's farthest reaches, each crusade is recounted in a clear, concise narrative. The author gives special attention as well to the crusades' effects on the Islamic world and the Christian Byzantine East.

Auteur
Thomas F. Madden is professor of history and director of the Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies at Saint Louis University. A widely recognized expert on the Crusades and Christian-Muslim relations, he is the author of numerous books, including The Fourth Crusade: The Conquest of Constantinople, Enrico Dandolo and the Rise of Venice, and Venice: A New History. Awards for his scholarship include the Haskins Medal (Medieval Academy of America) and the Otto Gründler Prize (Medieval Institute). He resides in St. Louis, Missouri.

Contenu
Chapter 1: The Call
Chapter 2: The First Crusade
Chapter 3: The Rise of the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem and the Second Crusade
Chapter 4: The Decline of the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem and the Third Crusade
Chapter 5: The Fourth Crusade
Chapter 6: Crusading at Home
Chapter 7: The Fifth Crusade and the Crusade of Frederick II
Chapter 8: The Crusades of St. Louis
Chapter 9: The Later Crusades
Chapter 10: The Legacy of the Crusades