Post by Josh on Sept 8, 2010 16:40:13 GMT -8
Just finished a book entitled Defenders of the Faith- a fast paced non-fiction account of the pivotal years 1520-1536 in Europe and the Middle East. The account centers around the varied lives and intrigues of the key players of the era: Charles V, Martin Luther, Pope Clement VII, Henry VIII, and Suleyman the Magnificent.
It really highlights Rome at it's worst (the city and the Vatican), Christendom at it's most divided, and Islam in it's most advanced historical position. I read the book quickly and was fascinated by it but was disgusted with how sordid the people of God had become at such a low point*. Luther wasn't always treated favorably by the author, but he nevertheless stands out in the narrative as a rare man of principle. I learned a lot of new things about him that I hadn't in strictly Christian books.
*not to mention the Muslim atrocities.
It really highlights Rome at it's worst (the city and the Vatican), Christendom at it's most divided, and Islam in it's most advanced historical position. I read the book quickly and was fascinated by it but was disgusted with how sordid the people of God had become at such a low point*. Luther wasn't always treated favorably by the author, but he nevertheless stands out in the narrative as a rare man of principle. I learned a lot of new things about him that I hadn't in strictly Christian books.
*not to mention the Muslim atrocities.