Whereas modern societies tend to banish the dead from the world of the living; medieval men and women acccorded them a vital role in the community. The saints counted most prominently as potential intercessors before God; but the ordinary dead as well were called upon to aid the living; and even to participate in the negotiation of political disputes. In this book; the distinguished medievalist Patrick J. Geary shows how exploring the complex relations between the living and dead can broaden our understanding of the political; economic; and cultural history of medieval Europe. Geary has brought together for this volume twelve of his most influential essays. They address such topics as the development of saints' cults and of the concept of sacred space; the integration of saints' cults into the lives of ordinary people; patterns of relic circulation; and the role of the dead in negotiating the claims and counterclaims of various interest groups. Also included are two case studies of communities that enlisted new patron saints to solve their problems. Throughout; Geary demonstrates that; by reading actions; artifacts; and rituals on an equal footing with texts; we can better grasp the otherness of past societies.
#737871 in Books Wilson James Graham 2015-01-20 2014-12-12Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.25 x .70 x 6.13l; .0 #File Name: 0801456835280 pagesTriumph of Improvisation Gorbachev s Adaptability Reagan s Engagement and the End of the Cold War
Review
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. A good book if you want to understand the winning of the Cold War.By Daune RobinsonI bought this book looking for something that made good use of newly released information on Reagan; Gorbachev and the Cold War that dominated the politics of my generation. I had read another book on this topic and was horribly disappointed - not so with this book. The author clearly did his research; and brought depth; breadth; and good insight to his telling of the long story of the Cold War.Modern popular interpretation of the end of the Cold War credits Ronald Reagan almost exclusively for the final results; but this author shows the contributions of many of Reagan's cabinet members; Gorbachev and his cohorts; and George Bush and his cabinet. The book spans politics; economics; military strategy; the influence of middle east strategy; and philosophical perspectives of all the players. By the time I was through I had a very clear picture of the many complexities; and while I may not understand all the intricate details I did find the author gave me a much broader understanding of what led to the end of the Soviet Union as the other major world power.This book did give a good explanation of the internal and external issues that led to Gorbachev's rise to power; and to the confluence of events that led to the amazing arms reduction agreements and the calming of Cold War tensions. The description of the severe economic problems facing the Soviet Union was fascinating and the impact of weapons buildup on those economic issues was made very clear by the author.I did take issue with some of the interpretations of Reagan's handling of his cabinet members; and his strategy in handling the Soviet Union in general. I'll admit to being a Reagan fan. That said; Mr. Wilson's perspective on Reagan and what he seemed to feel was essentially a rudderless leadership style is; in my opinion; flawed. He makes the case that Reagan didn't provide strong leadership. i would argue from reading this book that Reagan was an amazingly strong leader and that leadership; which included a cabinet full of widely diverse opinions and philosophies; was what enabled him and his staff to navigate the very uncertain waters of the Cold War and the rush to arms based on MAD. I think far too much credit was given to George Bush and his staff for the events already set in place; but I also think that Mr. Wilson did an excellent job of providing credit for the results to Gorbachev and his staff in easing tension and bringing calm to a tense world situation.Overall - an excellent book - well written; easy to follow; and something anyone who wants a good understanding of the Cold War and the relationship between communism and capitalism should read.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Great insight to two great leaders.By Marilyn DeLunaI always enjoy reading anything that has to do with our former President Ronald Reagan. His relationship with Gorbachev was amazing - two very strong-willed leaders who worked together with mutual respect. Enjoyed reading the history of what happened at that very important time in American history.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy anonymousA balanced and insightful book about an important topic. The descriptions of the various personalities are entertaining.
