Janet Harvey Kelman
Stories from the Crusades
"Stories from the Crusades" by Janet Harvey Kelman is a historical account likely written in the early 20th century. The book recounts the tales of heroes from the Crusades, exploring their motivations and struggles, along with the contrasting characters who accompanied them in their journeys, such as Peter the Hermit, Tancred, and Louis. It delves into the complex interplay of faith, ambition, and moral dilemmas faced by these figures in the pursuit of reclaiming the Holy Land. The opening portion introduces Peter, a restless boy from a castle in France, who is longing for adventure and purpose. Inspired by tales of the Jerusalem pilgrimage and aware of the brutal treatment faced by Christian pilgrims under Muslim rule, Peter decides to embark on a quest to rally support for the Crusades. He captures the attention of a wide audience with his impassioned speeches about reclaiming Jerusalem, ultimately leading a group of eager but untrained followers with hopes of overcoming the challenges that lie ahead. This sets the stage for an exploration of the motivations, ideals, and consequences of the Crusading spirit through vividly illustrated stories.