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Summary:
Now in trade paperback, a gripping exploration of the fall of Constantinople and its connection to the world we live in today
The fall of Constantinople in 1453 signaled a shift in history, and the end of the Byzantium Empire. Roger Crowley’s readable and comprehensive account of the battle between Mehmed II, sultan of the Ottoman Empire, and Constantine XI, the 57th emperor of Byzantium, illuminates the period in history that was a precursor to the current jihad between the West and the Middle East.
Customer Reviews:
Average Customer Rating:
Like a novel, only short
Customer Rating:
The book is very well researched and practically reads like a novel, with varying descriptions of both sides of the engagement, as well as historical perspectives and analysis of events that led to the battle. My only complaint is that it felt too short, though that may be because it read so well. At only a few hundred pages, I'm sure much more could have been added to the narrative, but the preciseness of the book made it that much better. Very well done.
Fast Paced, Readable History
Customer Rating:
The Fall of Constantinople was a watershed mark in history and Roger Crowley does an excellent job in retelling the story. Accordingly,many past and modern versions of the fall of Constantinople are deeply intermingled with both myth and religious narrative; narratives that blend what actually happened with notions of perception and what they believe may have happened.
According to the author, (in his notes about the sources), his aim in retelling the tale of Constantinople has been to construct out of the various conflicts of blame, agenda, and religion, a robust central version of events.
He does an admirable job of presenting a very objective story as told from both victor and vanquished.
This is an excellent book that is very readable and paints a very vivid word picture of the events, actions and actors.
Dr. Terry Tucker, Adjunct Prof History
AP World History Review
Customer Rating:
"In the jihad against Constantinople, one third of Muslims will allow themselves to be defeated, which Allah cannot forgive; one third will be killed in battle, making them wondrous martyrs; and one third will be victorious."
Speaking as a High School student, I was not completely thrilled when I received this book to read and review for my AP World History class. Nor can I say that I started this book but a few days before it was due. I give all of my thanks to Roger Crowley, who created a historical text that wasn't a terrific chore to read in two days.
The book, overall, was very interesting and was structured much like a fictional novel. The story of Islam vs. Christianity and their struggle for "true faith" had the classic elements of suspense, disappointment, and the "I really shouldn't find these so funny" Ottoman tactics of punishing a captive by "sticking a stake through his anus."
All in all, I would recommend this book to any student or adult who is willing to dive into a vast sea of knowledge. Though 1453 contained some descriptions of artillery that rivaled the length and interest levels of those in Greek mythology, it effectively told the tale of Constantinople and added historical allusions and comparisons throughout the story that further added to its appeal.
Furthermore, how can you rival a book that talks about a sea commander named Dolfin Dolfin? This book is definitely the best nonfiction, historical story that I have encountered thus far in my educational experience.
Pushed my buttons.
Customer Rating:
I'll give this book 3 stars out of charity, and because it may succeed as a work of popular history; indeed, most readers will be satisfied with it.
I can't write an exhaustive review, because I quit reading at p.32,when Crowley says that "the Ottomans ruled their subjects with a light hand. . . . No attempts were made to convert Christians . . ." etc. Ask anyone who's lived under Ottoman rule,if you can still find one of these venerable folk, or talk to their descendants. You'll get a different picture of the situation. Crowley himself describes some of the horrors of the siege, inflicted by these "tolerant" Muslims.
It is true that some Ottoman officials developed a liberal laissez-faire attitude toward the Christians--either out of Levantine indolence or practical intelligence: why harass honest and industrious people? Plus, they pay taxes through the nose. And even Sultan Mehmed II was lenient towards the Christians once he had established his rule. Still, the many horrors remain.
If I'd been at home while reading this book, I would have thrown it across the room. As it was, I was in the car and merely commented on the nonsense to my companions.
Gentle reader, if you really want to learn about the Fall of Constaninople, read Runciman, or Sir Edwin Pears, if you can find his book. Also, the translations of the chronicles of the time.
Informative
Customer Rating:
A more technical treatment of the subject than Sir Steven Runciman's The Fall of Constantinople 1453 (Canto), but I have to admit that I prefer the style of Sir Runciman. What Sir Runciman neglected in detail, Mr. Crowley has provided. But, at the same time, there were points where Mr. Crowley seemed overly concerned with parallels to today (implied somewhat in the subtitle). Despite that minor criticism it is likely the very thing other readers will enjoy about the book. Mr. Crowley also recently did a fine article in Military History magazine concerning the fall of Constantinople and I would recommend that as well for thorough technical detail. This is a thorough and enjoyable work and an important contribution to understanding the last days of Constaniople.
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