Christian Interpretation of the Crusades
History: KS3, topic 2.3.9
Christian Interpretations of the Crusades
Not everyone has the same opinion of the Crusades. The Christian viewpoint was biased.
Positive interpretation
- The Crusades were romanticised by Christian writers. This means they were remembered fondly and the negative aspects of the Crusades were ignored.
- Many writers described the Crusaders as chivalrous knights who were heroes in their time.
- The word ‘crusader’ has connotations of being moral and fighting for what is right.
Negative interpretation
- However, by the 20th century (when criticism of the contemporary British Empire was growing), many viewed the Crusades as an example oppressive and violent colonialism.
Test yourself on Christian Interpretation of the Crusades
Which word has connotations of being moral and fighting for what is right?
When was criticism of the contemporary British Empire growing?