Robert the Monk's History of the First Crusade

by Carol Sweetenham

This is the first English translation of Robert the Monk's Historia Iherosolimitana, a Latin prose chronicle describing the First Crusade. In addition to providing new and unique information on the Crusade (Robert claims to have been an eyewitness of the Council of Clermont in 1095), its particular interest lies in the great popularity it enjoyed in the Middle Ages. The text has close links with the vernacular literary tradition and is written in a racy style which would not disgrace a modern tabloid journalist. Its reflection of contemporary legends and anecdotes gives us insights into perceptions of the Crusade at that time and opens up interesting perspectives onto the relationship of history and fiction in the twelfth century. The introduction discusses what we know about Robert, his importance as a historical source and his place in the literary tradition of the First Crusade.

Genres: History, Medieval, Medieval History

262 pages, Paperback

First published January 31, 2005

Reviews

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though the author is given to hyperbole, his account of the first crusade is largely historically accurate and also vividly told. As one would expect, Robert's depiction of the Saracens is incredibly tainted by prejudice and his take on the role played by the Byzantine's is even more so. However, there is a surprising bluntness in regards to some of the less-then-honorable actions of the crusaders and Robert is, at times, critical of at least some of its leaders. The editor provides some interesting commentary on the work and helps to contextualize it within the crusading literature of the time. Though she occasionally stumbles into modern scholarly smugness, it's thankfully kept to a minimum.

[Michael Wasson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Essential primary source material.

[Grace · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fine primary source, but it's otherwise a dry read.

[Rima · Rating 3 out of 5]

Too gory and overly glorified.