The Saint and the Sultan

Main Themes and Topics

The book The Saint and the Sultan by Paul Moses delves into a largely forgotten historical encounter that occurred during the tumultuous times of the Fifth Crusade. At its core, the book explores themes of peace, interfaith dialogue, and the courage to seek understanding amidst conflict. Moses focuses on the mission of St. Francis of Assisi, who ventured into the enemy territory to meet Sultan Malik Al-Kamil, with the hopes of ending the violence and fostering a dialogue between two opposing worlds. The narrative reveals how these two historical figures spoke about war, peace, and faith. By revisiting this encounter, the book draws parallels to the modern-day quest for harmony between the Western and Islamic worlds, making the themes as relevant today as they were centuries ago.

Writing Style and Tone

Paul Moses's writing style in The Saint and the Sultan is both engaging and informative. He masterfully intertwines historical analysis with a narrative flair, creating a vivid reconstruction of 13th-century events. The tone of the book is reflective, aiming not just to inform but also to inspire readers about the possibilities of dialogue and mutual respect in times of conflict. Moses’s meticulous research is evident throughout, and he presents complex historical events in a manner that is accessible and thought-provoking, keeping readers hooked as they delve deeper into the lives of St. Francis and the Sultan.

Awards and Recognition

The Saint and the Sultan has garnered acclaim and received the 2010 Catholic Press Association Book Award for History. This accolade underscores the book's significant contribution to historical literature and its impact in shedding light on an important, yet often overlooked episode in history. The award further highlights the book's success in offering a narrative that resonates with contemporary issues of peace and interfaith dialogue.

Brief Summary

In his book, Paul Moses examines the extraordinary meeting between St. Francis of Assisi and Sultan Malik Al-Kamil during the Fifth Crusade. The narrative provides a detailed account of Francis's mission as he crosses borders in an attempt to dialogue with the Sultan. Through this encounter, the book showcases their discussions on war, peace, and faith, ultimately revealing an inspiring and timely story of interfaith understanding. The meeting not only challenges the prevailing norms of the time but also sets forth a message of peace and coexistence. By resurrecting this significant historical episode, Moses offers a powerful reminder of the enduring quest for peace between diverse cultures and faiths.