Baldric of Bourgueil 'History of the Jerusalemites'

Brief Summary

Baldric of Bourgueil 'History of the Jerusalemites', also known as Historia Ierosolimitana, is a medieval prose narrative composed around 1105 by Baldric, Abbot of Bourgueil. The work chronicles the events of the First Crusade, primarily drawing upon the anonymous Gesta Francorum for foundational material. Baldric's ambitions were to elevate the historical account by infusing it with literary elements and enhancing the portrayal of its characters. The narrative serves as a reflection on the tumultuous experiences and miraculous aspects encountered during the crusade.

Main Themes and Topics

Baldric's History of the Jerusalemites largely revolves around the theme of divine intervention in human affairs, as demonstrated by the miraculous success of the First Crusade despite overwhelming odds. The work also explores themes of heroism and piety, foregrounding the roles of key figures in the crusading efforts. Another predominant theme is the notion of sacred destiny, where the endeavors and achievements of the crusaders are framed within the context of fulfilling a divine mandate.

Writing Style and Tone

The narrative style of Baldric's history is characterized by its pursuit of a more refined and literary presentation compared to the original Gesta Francorum. Baldric enhances the factual recounting with rhetorical flourishes, broad descriptions, and more vivid characterizations to create an account that is not just informative, but also engaging for its audience. His tone can be described as reverential and sometimes poetic, reflecting the author's intent to honor the perceived divine elements in the historical unfolding of the First Crusade.

Criticism

Critics of Baldric's work often highlight the tension between historical accuracy and literary embellishment. By prioritizing the narrative's literary quality and thematic profundity, Baldric may have introduced elements that challenge the strict factual recounting one might expect in a historical account. This creative license, while enhancing the text's appeal, raises questions about its reliability as a purely historical document.