Medieval pilgrimage was; above all; an expression of religious faith; but this was not its only aspect. Men and women of all classes went on pilgrimage for a variety of reasons; sometimes by choice; sometimes involuntarily. They made both long and short journeys: to Rome; Jerusalem and Santiago on the one hand; to innumerable local shrines on the other. The routes that they followed by land and water made up a complex web which covered the face of Europe; and their travels required a range of support services; including the protection of rulers (who were themselves often pilgrims). Pilgrimage left its mark not only on the landscape but also on the art and literature of Europe.Diana Webb's engaging book offers the reader a fresh introduction to the history of European Christian pilgrimage in the twelve hundred years between the conversion of Emperor Constantine and the beginnings of the Protestant Reformation. As well as exploring this multi-faceted activity; it considers both the geography of pilgrimage and its significant cultural legacy.
#2415726 in Books Little Brown Co (T) 1998-02Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.75 x 6.50 x 1.75l; #File Name: 0316853259548 pagesGreat product!
Review
8 of 9 people found the following review helpful. Very interesting piece of Military HistoryBy Aussie ReaderNoah Trudeau is a great author of Civil War history and in this book he once again shows that he is a craftsman of his art. This is only one of two books I have every read that have showed the role that negroes played in the military history of the United States. I have read many books on the American Civil War and very few have ever mentioned U.S. Black Troops; at long last this gap in American history has been filled. The narrative is excellent and the author has researched his topic well; covering almost every major skirmish and action undertaken by these troops. Its a shame that these actions weren't in more detail depth but I suppose the author had constraints on time and size (the book is 548 pages). He has placed each action in context within the war and the political feeling at the time. The author has used letters; diaries and after-action reports of the participants and others involved (reporters politicians). Overall the book offers the reader a very good overview of the role of coloured troops during the Civil War.0 of 5 people found the following review helpful. bookBy KanitaDidn't purchase for mayself. It came in handy for school project. Only used one time for information to be used for a school assignment.10 of 12 people found the following review helpful. A Great Start!By T. JordanThis book offers a history lesson of the Negro within the ranks of our great military; some ver positive and some very negative. It is well written and presents a good picture of the civil war and fighting as a black soldier. As a retired military officer; I thoroughly enjoyed this read and would like to see more research in this area.Per Mr. Ford's (a write-in) comments on black soldiers and their inability to stand and fight; I will offer the following comments:Some of the most important tenants in producing successful soldiers are training; discipline; leadership and morale. Not making excuses for any soldier of any racial background who flee any battlefield (or Mr. Fords comments); I think that if one properly researches the history of the black soldier during the civil war; one would find that they were not in many instances very well trained; disciplined; nor led. There primary function was to perform menial duties (grave diggers; personal aides; and other non combat related duties). In addition; to many white officers; it was considered a slap in the face to command black troops. So I oft wonder who trained them and how creditable was the training? In addition; who led these men and what were their qualifications to lead?Although not a very appeasing statement; but American soldiers throughout history have been routed on the battlefield. This is demonstrated throughout the Civil War by both Union and Confederate soldiers. During the First Battle of Manassas; union soldiers ran after being routed by confederate forces. Also; during the battle at Gettysburg confederate soldiers fled the battlefield in the face of adversity and in some cases after poor leadership decisions.More recently; American soldiers were routed during the Africa Campaign of WWII and also during Korea where many American soldiers fled the battlefield in the face of overwhelming odds; lack of leadership; proper training; decipline; morale; and proper logistics.Although Mr. Ford commentary is truly eloquent; he should do a better job researching and clearly presenting the facts.
