Saladin: The Sultan Who Vanquished the Crusaders and Built an Islamic Empire

by John Man Narrated by Bruce Mann

Overview

In this authoritative biography, historian John Man brings Saladin and his world to life with vivid detail in "a rollicking good story" (Justin Marozzi).



Saladin remains one of the most iconic figures of his age. As the man who united the Arabs and saved Islam from Christian crusaders in the twelfth century, he is the Islamic world's preeminent hero. A ruthless defender of his faith and leader, he possessed qualities that won admiration from his Christian foes.



But Saladin is far more than a historical hero. Builder, literary patron, and theologian, he is a man for all times, and a symbol of hope for an Arab world once again divided. Centuries after his death, in cities from Damascus to Cairo and beyond, Saladin continues to be a potent symbol of religious and military resistance to the West. He is central to Arab memories, sensibilities, and the ideal of a unified Islamic state.



John Man charts Saladin's rise to power, his struggle to unify the warring factions of his faith, and his battles to retake Jerusalem and expel Christian influence from Arab lands. Saladin explores the life and enduring legacy of this champion of Islam while examining his significance for the world today.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

"One could not wish for a better storyteller than John Man."—Simon Sebag Montefiore, author of Jerusalem


"A tale about the life of a man and the passions that drove him"—Roanoke Times


"A worthy biography of an important Muslim hero"—Foreword Reviews


"Superb and eminently readable"—Chicago Tribune's Printers Row


"[A] masterful biography...The book tells a clear, vivid story of seemingly endless conflict, showing the strengths and weaknesses of both Christians and Muslims. The characters are fascinating...Man's style and pacing are just right for the general reader. This account provides valuable perspective for the twenty-first century tensions between Islam and the West."—Internet Review of Books, 9/29/16

"An excellent overview on this complex man and his time."
—Military Periscope

"A very interesting and informative biography that provides insights relevant to issues surrounding the Middle East today."—Toy Soldier & Model Figure

"The author of this book is an entertaining storyteller with an ear for a good turn of phrase."—The Historian

"Man presents a complete biographical account of Saladin's life, while also building his narrative around the Crusades...Saladin can also be characterized as a contribution to the popular history of the Crusades...This volume...succeeds in presenting a vivid picture of medieval life in the Middle East that will appeal to a popular audience."—H-Net

Library Journal

04/01/2016
Although little is known of Saladin's early life, historian and prolific author Man (Marco Polo) skillfully sets the scene in describing the tumultuous world in which Saladin (1138–93) came of age. His rise to power began when he was appointed vizier of Egypt under his mentor, Nur al-Din. Saladin's career ascended after al-Din's death; eventually, he would unite the Muslim Middle East and reconquer Jerusalem and other Holy Land sites from the Franks. Throughout his reign, Saladin effectively faced challenges from the Christian Crusaders and from within Islam itself. Man presents Saladin as an intelligent, tactful leader who employed both a soft and hard approach to achieve his aims. He could be generous or ruthless, depending on the circumstances. At times, Saladin used force against an adversary, in other instances, persuasion. His methods worked, as he ultimately became one of the most beloved sultans in history. Man's narrative is well written and immensely entertaining. Moreover, the author introduces the reader to other fascinating characters along the way, such as Hassan i-Sabbah (leader of the Assassins), the villainous Reynaud de Châtillon, and Baldwin IV (the Leper King). VERDICT This book will appeal to anyone interested in the Crusades or medieval history. An excellent addition to a public or academic library.—Dave Pugl, Ela Area P.L., Lake Zurich, IL

Product Details

BN ID:	2940192334089
Publisher:	Tantor Audio
Publication date:	06/25/2024
Edition description:	Unabridged