The Leper King and His Heirs: Baldwin IV and the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem

About this book

The reign of King Baldwin IV of Jerusalem (1174-85) has traditionally been seen as a period of decline when, because of the king's illness, power came to be held by those who made the wrong policy decisions. Notably, they ignored the advice of Raymond of Tripoli and attacked Saladin. This book challenges that view, arguing that peace with Saladin was not a viable option; and that the young king, despite suffering from lepromatous leprosy, presided over a society that was (contrary to what is often said) vigorous and self-confident.

Details

Format

Hardcover

ISBN-13

9780521641876

Publisher

Cambridge University Press

Published

May 18, 2000

Pages

316

Weight

22.4 oz

Subject

History