Interludes of Peace in the Medieval Latin East

Interludes of Peace in the Medieval Latin East undertakes a multifaceted examination of peacemaking processes as they unfolded in the medieval Latin East. Perhaps less heroic than war, these peacemaking endeavors make a significant contribution to our understanding of life in the medieval Middle East during the Crusades. This book considers how ceasefires, truces, and peace treaties were achieved through a process of mutual acculturation between Crusaders and local Muslim societies and the mechanisms employed to overcome both cultural and religious divides. Notwithstanding these warring societies' differing concepts of lasting peace, this did not prevent them from engaging in treaty-making during the twocentury-long conflict in the Latin East. The story told here is of the quest for "small," realistic peace, however fragile and temporary. In the process, a shared language of gestures, body language, and gift-giving was created that enabled and enhanced trust and coexistence. However, global political changes, economic developments, and new trade routes ultimately ended European rule in the medieval Middle East.

Yvonne Friedman is Professor (retired) of General History and Land of Israel Studies and Archeology at Bar- Ilan University. Her main field of interest- Crusader- Muslim interactions in the medieval Latin East- is reflected both in her study of ransom from captivity (Encounter between Enemies [2002]) and the current volume. This book mirrors her interest in the interreligious contacts and twelfth- and thirteenth- century peace processes in the Latin East; along with many of her articles, it treats the focal question of how to end holy war. In addition, her research touches on medieval anti- Semitism, women in a fighting society, pilgrimage, and crusades.

Introduction: The Ideal of Peace in Medieval Christianity and Islam Chapter 1: Why End Holy War? Chapter 2: How to Make Peace? Chapter 3: Terms of Peace Chapter 4: Chapter 5: Chapter 6: Chapter 7: Chapter 8: Peace and Power Appendix: Table of Treaties Bibliography