Definition:
Stephen of Blois was a second-rank leader of the First Crusade. On his way to
the Holy Land, Fulcher of Chartes followed Stephen of Blois’ army to Antioch.
Here, Stephen of Blois made a decision that he would most likely regret; he
decided to return home on June 2, 1098. This was one day before Antioch was
taken by the Christians (talk about bad luck!). Later in his life, Stephen of
Blois was killed and became a martyr (Pryor 27).
Importance: Stephen of Blois is an interesting character in the crusade
narrative. He represents what it means to be human through his strengths and
weaknesses. History sees him as a disgraced coward (Crusades page 74). Despite
his outcome, Stephen of Blois provides us with an invaluable first-hand account
of the First Crusade from his letters to his wife Adela. These are the only
surviving letters from any Crusader in the First Crusade.
No comments:
Post a Comment