This is a well written book on the history of the crusades taken from a different perspective. It almost approaches satire as it relates to the religious fervor of these early Christians. It helps to put your own religious beliefs in perspective and blurs the line between religious fervor and insanity.
This novel is structured without the use of a traditional plotline or character development, The author attempts an original literary feat of presenting dialogues by both the European and the Muslim protaganists in the Crusade fighting years. I found it fascinating and one of the most readable books ever about medieval politics and psychology of the Crusaders in their Mission to the Holy Land.
Using the chronicle form, Evan Connell achieves subtle characterizations and shadings in this fine work on the Crusades. A vivid centerpiece around which events take place is the portrayal of the rivalry of Richard Lionheart and Saladin, and the similarity of their religious zeal The book is like a great medieval painting or tapestry with hundreds of minor characters and depictions. If one asks the obvious question, how can European people be intimidated to go across the sea bent on destruction and murder of people who are not Christian, and with holy zeal? "Deus lo volt" gives answers that chill the blood but do paint a picture of the clash of cultures in a heartbreaking panorama.
Using the chronicle form, Evan Connell achieves subtle characterizations and shadings in this fine work on the Crusades. A vivid centerpiece around which events take place is the portrayal of the rivalry of Richard Lionheart and Saladin, and the similarity of their religious zeal The book is like a great medieval painting or tapestry with hundreds of minor characters and depictions. If one asks the obvious question, how can European people be intimidated to go across the sea bent on destruction and murder of people who are not Christian, and with holy zeal? "Deus lo volt" gives answers that chill the blood but do paint a picture of the clash of cultures in a heartbreaking panorama.
