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An exciting study of historical myth . . . concise and absorbing
Paul Freedman, author of Out of the EastVivid, original, and engaging
David Abulafia, Literary ReviewAn immersive study . . . exceptionally captivating
Washington PostRodrigo Díaz lived a vividly colored life in eleventh-century Spain. An ambitious general, exile, and brutal mercenary, he served Christian kings, fought against Christian princes in the service of Muslim rulers, plundered and killed Muslims, and eventually stood out, climbing to an independent principality. While Rodrigo as a man has long been dead, El Cid remains alive: a superhero? an almost saint? the 'spirit of Spain,' according to military dictator Franco? and a defender of medieval Spanish multiculturalism. Nora Berend uncovers how El Cid has transformed over the centuries, addressing the gap between truth and legend and examining how a military adventurer became a hero for people at opposite ends of the political spectrum. What is it that attracts us to this man? And why do we turn the most unsuitable people into heroes?
'Let the true El Cid stand up.' Nora Berend's fascinating new book covers almost a thousand years of history and myths surrounding this eleventh-century warrior . . . and features all the delectable ironies of history.
Professor Marc David Baer, author of The Ottomans: Khans, Caliphs, and CaesarsPages: 256, Publication Year: 0225, Dimensions: 16x16cm
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