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A History of the Crusades: The First Crusade and the Foundation of the Kingdom of Jerusalem v. 1 (Penguin History)

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Author: Steven Runciman
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
Category: Book

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Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

17 reviews
Sales Rank: 86478

Media: Paperback
Edition: New Ed
Pages: 400
Shipping Weight (lbs): 0.4
Dimensions (in): 7.7 x 5 x 0.9

ISBN: 0140137068
Dewey Decimal Number: 950
EAN: 9780140137064
ASIN: 0140137068

Publication Date: March 28, 1991
Availability: Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
Condition: BRAND NEW and IN STOCK - dispatched within 48 hours from the UK

Also Available In:

•	Paperback - A History of the Crusades: The Kingdom of Jerusalem and the Frankish East 1100-1187 v. 2
•	Paperback - A History of the Crusades: The Kingdom Of Acre and the Later Crusades v. 3
•	Paperback - A History of the Crusades 3 volume set (paperback)
•	Unknown Binding - A history of the Crusades
•	Unknown Binding - A history of the Crusades (Harper Torchbooks, The Academy library)
•	Unknown Binding - A HISTORY OF THE CRUSADES
•	Hardcover - A History of the Crusades

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Customer Reviews: Read 12 more reviews...

5 out of 5 stars

magisterial December 18, 2007
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

First off, it is important to note that Runciman's work (now over 50 years old) has by and large been superseded by more recent scholarship - in particular that of Jonathan Riley-Smith. Runciman views the Crusades as the last of the 'Barbarian Invasions' and his work often reads more like a threnody for the declining Byzantine Empire than a self-consciously 'objective' account of events. For a more up-to-date (though drier) general history, you would be better off reading Christopher Tyerman's new 'God's War.'

However, it is still more than possible to read and enjoy 'A History of the Crusades' for what it is - an epic account of three hundred years of history, and an energetic demolition of the view (sadly still prevalent in some circles) that the Crusades were bold and heroic, or somehow 'defensive' in nature. Although some of the analytical material is somewhat dated, the book is eminently readable and exciting, and is in my opinion still the best general introduction to the subject. Enormously influential in its day and still of relevance.

4 out of 5 stars

Better than Lord of the Rings! May 27, 2007
1 out of 2 found this review helpful

The final volume of this epic trilogy recounts the final days of the Kingdom of Jerusalem (of whose capital is now Acre). The book follows the battle of Hattin, and the increasing disunity within the kingdom. The book concentrates on the various political intrigues and personality clashes within the crusader states. The book picks up again half way through with an even larger threat to Islam, the Mongols. Another epic battle, Ain Jalud is covered, with the Muslims again recovering their lands. The book concludes with a commentary of the crusades. Cant wait to read The Fall of Constantinople also by Mr Runciman, which follows on from this trilogy.

5 out of 5 stars

As engrossing as the first volume. May 12, 2007
2 out of 3 found this review helpful

This volume sees the arrival of the second crusade, political intrigues amongst the future generations. The rise of Sulahuddin and the collapse of the Frankish Kingdoms. The book concludes with the Battle of Hattin and the conquest of Jerusalem by Sulahuddin. At times is can be hard to keep track of who is who, there are generations of kings, princes and regents who share the same name. The family tree at the back of the book is a welcome aid.

5 out of 5 stars

A Truly Epic Account of the Crusades April 25, 2007
5 out of 6 found this review helpful

Apart from the long lists of names that come thick and fast, this is an excellent account of the Crusades. Although some of the language seems a little dated, I feel that this adds to its appeal. The book begins with Caliph Umar's conquest of Jerusalum and the origins of the crusade. Scholarly, Epic and thoroughly engrossing. The author had a very engaging style. Recommended.

5 out of 5 stars

Best books February 14, 2007
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

of the plethora of books i have read in all subjects, i have the best memories of these. Especially the first 2 books because they are not only vividly factual but also very flowing. there is strong character development and feels like Lord of the Rings meets the Kingdom of Heaven.