Byzantium and the Crusades

Main Themes and Topics

Byzantium and the Crusades by Jonathan Harris is a comprehensive exploration of the Byzantine Empire's interactions and relationships during the time of the Crusades. A predominant theme is the complex and nuanced attitude of the Byzantine ruling elites towards the Crusaders. Harris delves into how these elites perceived and managed the challenges brought by the Crusades, emphasizing that these interactions can be better understood through Byzantine ideology rather than any simple antagonism between East and West. The book also tackles the broader East-West relationship, examining how Byzantine diplomatic and military strategy was influenced by Western European powers and the crusader states.

Writing Style and Tone

Jonathan Harris employs a scholarly yet accessible writing style, making use of a vast array of primary sources to support his arguments. His tone is analytical and meticulous, aimed at both academic audiences and general readers with an interest in Byzantine history. Harris’s incorporation of recent scholarship and primary source translations adds depth to the narrative, allowing readers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the historical context and the varied perspectives involved.

Brief Summary

In Byzantium and the Crusades, Jonathan Harris provides a chronological survey of Byzantine history during the Crusades. The book details the interactions between the Byzantine Empire and Western European forces, offering insights into the strategic and ideological challenges faced by the Byzantines. This third edition enriches the reader’s understanding with additional visual aids, maps, and genealogical tables, as well as appendices that include primary source translations and discussions of the subject's representation in both fiction and non-fiction. Harris's work serves as a keystone for those seeking to comprehend the complex East-West dynamics of this era.