The world of El Cid

The world of El Cid
Author: Simon Barton
Publisher: Manchester University Press
Total Pages: 296
Release: 2013-01-01
Genre: History
ISBN: 1526112639

Makes available, for the first time in English translation, four of the principal narrative sources for the history of the Spanish kingdom of León-Castile during the eleventh and twelfth centuries. Three chronicles focus primarily upon the activities of the kings of León-Castile as leaders of the Reconquest of Spain from the forces of Islam, and especially upon Fernando I (1037-65), his son Alfonso VI (1065-1109) and the latter's grandson Alfonso VII (1126-57). The fourth chronicle is a biography of the hero Rodrigo Díaz, better remembered as El Cid, and is the main source of information about his extraordinary career as a mercenary soldier who fought for Christian and Muslim alike. Covers the fascinating interaction of the Muslim and Christian worlds, each at the height of their power. Each text is prefaced by its own introduction and accompanied by explanatory notes.

The Epic of The Cid

The Epic of The Cid
Author:
Publisher: Hackett Publishing
Total Pages: 251
Release: 2011-03-15
Genre: Poetry
ISBN: 160384600X

The Epic of the Cid records the deeds of Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, the Cid of history and legend. A powerful warrior in the Christian reconquest of medieval Spain, a formidable strategist, and a charismatic leader, the Cid deeply impressed his contemporaries, both Christian and Muslim. Already, in his lifetime, songs, stories, and chronicles were devoted to his exploits. In offering both a highly readable, colloquial prose translation of El Cantar de Mio Cid and selections from a wide variety of those contemporary accounts, this volume brings the historical figure back to life for modern readers. Harney's substantial Introduction and annotation provide the historical, military, and literary background necessary for an informed reading of the texts; also included are maps, a compendium of proper names, a bibliography, and an index.

The Chronicle of the Discovery and Conquest of Guinea (Vol. 1&2)

The Chronicle of the Discovery and Conquest of Guinea (Vol. 1&2)
Author: Gomes Eannes de Zurara
Publisher: Good Press
Total Pages: 553
Release: 2023-12-12
Genre: History
ISBN:

Gomes Eannes de Zurara's 'The Chronicle of the Discovery and Conquest of Guinea' is a significant historical account of Portuguese exploration and colonization in Africa during the 15th century. Written in a detailed and factual style, the book provides a firsthand narrative of the expeditions, encounters with native populations, and the establishment of trading posts along the Guinea coast. Zurara's work is considered a primary source for scholars studying early European expansion and the interactions between different cultures. The vivid descriptions and meticulous documentation make this chronicle a valuable resource for understanding the dynamics of colonialism during this period. It is a compelling read for history enthusiasts interested in the African diaspora and the impact of exploration on global trade routes. Gomes Eannes de Zurara's expertise as a royal chronicler and his close association with Portuguese explorers like Henry the Navigator lend credibility to his account of the events in Guinea, making it a reliable and informative resource for anyone interested in the history of European exploration in Africa.

The World of El Cid

The World of El Cid
Author: Simon Barton
Publisher: Manchester University Press
Total Pages: 300
Release: 2000
Genre: History
ISBN: 9780719052262

This book makes available, for the first time in English translation, four of the principal narrative sources for the history of the Spanish kingdom of León-Castile during the 11th and12th centuries. The four chronicles were all composed in an unprecedented surge of Spanish historical writing between c.1110 and c.1150. Three of them focus primarily upon the activities of the kings of León-Castile as leaders of the Reconquest of Spain from the forces of Islam, and especially upon Fernando I (1037-65), his son Alfonso VI (1065-1109) and the latter's grandson Alfonso VII (1126-57). The fourth chronicle is a biography of the hero Rodrigo Díaz, better remembered as El Cid, and is the main source of information about his extraordinary career as a mercenary soldier who fought for Christians and Muslims alike.