The Battle for Christendom Book Review
The Council of Constance 1415 & the Struggle to Unite Against Islam
The Council of Constance
Frank Welsh’s new study concentrates on the far-reaching consequences of the 1414 Council of Constance. The event is often overlooked, but, believes the author, should be regarded as one of the most significant meetings held in medieval Europe.
The event was held in November 1414 in Constance, and was a conference attended by kings, nobles, prelates and scholars. Europe at this time was beset by problems and torn by war. Countries were embroiled in international wars and internal squabbles and the Turkish armies continually attacked the borders of Europe.
Three Popes Claiming the Papacy
The author examines the background of turmoil which led up to the calling of the conference. The Christian religion was going through a turbulent time and three different popes were claiming the papacy, each with their own factions determined to support them.
Ordinary citizens were unsure who led the Christian church and the increasing power of Islamic forces was creating tensions. Sigismund, King of Hungary, Bohemia and the Germans was able to persuade other European leaders to meet for an international congress, in which it was hoped, the various problems which Europe faced could be addressed.
The Outcome of the Council of Constance
Frank Welsh explains the proceedings of the Council and details its far-reaching effects. He believes that, despite the huge differences in beliefs and outlook, which were revealed between the various leaders, the seeds were sown for reuniting the Christian church in Europe.
Summary
The Battle for Christendom claims to be the first popular account of the Council of Constance. This is a subject which may be new to many interested in the medieval period. However, the author sets the scene well and explains the events which led up to the calling of the Council.
The scope of this study is wide ranging, and Welsh shows great skill in describing epic events which affected a whole continent, whilst also including small and vital details.
Maps and photographs serve to further enlighten the reader and there are interesting details of medieval life in every chapter. For example, the dinner menu at the Council is described, along with contemporary accounts of how the Council rooms were set out ready for the important delegates.
This is an interesting and lively account of a key event, which had a big part in shaping modern-day Europe.
Publication Details
Welsh, Frank The Battle for Christendom. The Council of Constance, 1415, and the Struggle to Unite Against Islam [Constable & Robinson, 2008]
283 pages, ISBN 9781845295219
