The Crusades 1095-1187: A multi-perspective history
This course offers an overview covering the Crusades to the Middle East during the period 1095-1187 (the First Crusade to the Fall of Jerusalem).
Week 1
On the Eve of the Crusades (pre 1095)
An induction to the Medieval Middle East discussing key political, economic and demographic characteristics. We also discuss the key political powers in the Middle East prior to the First Crusade (Fatimid, Seljuk, Assassin, Byzantine), as well as introduce Western Christendom on the eve of the Crusades.
Week 2
The First Crusade (1095-1099)
The origins, progress, and culmination of the First Crusade and its impact on Middle Eastern politics. We also cover the impact of environmental/climatic changes on the Crusade from Egyptian and Seljuk Turkish perspectives.
Week 3
The Foundation of the Crusader States (1099-1127)
The origins and early development of the four main Crusader States, the impact of the First Crusade on the Fatimid and Seljuk Empires, and Byzantine responses to the First Crusade. Also discussed is Byzantine culture and relations with the Middle East and the West.
Week 4
The rise of the Zangids and the Second Crusade (1127-1148)
The establishment and expansion of the Zangid Empire in the twelfth century and its impact on Middle Eastern geopolitics (including the Crusader States). The Struggle for Damascus (Damascene and Assassin perspectives). Also covered is life under Zangid/Crusader Rule (Muslim, Eastern Christian and Jewish perspectives), including focused discussion on female rule and experience during this era.
Week 5
Nur al-Din and Saladin (1149-1174)
The ongoing rise of the Zangid Empire and the overthrow of Egypt, and Saladin, the master of Egypt, from various perspectives. Also, castles, art, architecture and life in the Medieval Middle East from a cross cultural perspective.
Week 6
The Fall of Jerusalem (1174-1187)
The wars between Saladin and the Crusader States, culminating in the battle of Hattin and the fall of Jerusalem. The economic and technological impact of the Crusades, and a brief survey covering the future development of the Crusades in later years.
NOTE: This course is not accredited by Dr. Morton's employer, Nottingham Trent University. It is for personal educational purposes only and does not result in any qualification.
Meet your Instructor
Nicholas Morton
Dr. Nicholas Morton is an Associate Professor in History at Nottingham Trent University (UK). He is the author or editor of many works on Medieval Middle Eastern history. His most recent book is: The Mongol Storm: Making and Breaking Empires in the Medieval Near East (Basic Books, 2022). Other books include: The Crusader States and their Neighbours: A Military History, 1099-1187 (Oxford University Press, 2020) and The Field of Blood: The Battle for Aleppo and the Remaking of the Medieval Middle East (Basic Books, 2018). He also runs a You Tube channel with videos covering the history of the Medieval Middle East (handle: @MedievalNearEast).