What Were the Crusades?

Description

Few attempts have been made to define "the crusade" before the first edition of this book was published in 1977. Since then, a number of historians have built upon Jonathan Riley-Smith's conclusions. Their research has been incorporated into this new, thoroughly revised, third edition of a classic starting point for any study of the crusading movement. Among other key aspects, the book deals with causes for crusading, the legitimizing authority of the papacy, recruitment, and the nature of the crusade vow and its consequences. This new edition also features a useful chronology and brief biographies of some crusaders, both real and imaginary. Original in its conception, this essential guide is a contribution of major importance to crusading scholarship. In its clear and concise treatment of the issues, it remains an unequalled introduction to the subject for students and general readers alike.