The Life of St. Louis – Jean de Joinville

Ok, this isn’t funny. I wrote this nearly a month or two ago, but never got around to finishing it. So here goes!

I have just recently finished reading: “The Life of St. Louis,” by Jean de Joinville for my history class. (Which is Part 2 of “The Chronicles of the Crusades,” and have enjoyed reading every last page of the book. It gives a deep and understanding look at the Life of the Saint/King during a small period in France before heading onto the Crusades. It is on the Crusades where we see the true character of the King, as he is a man of both prayer and action, being the first to lead his troops into battle, jumping off the landing ships into the water.

Now, the issue of the Crusades will bring up some rather curious questions, since there were some men who abused the issue of the Holy Wars, and some who fought in them in defense of Church and State. Louis the Ninth, King of France, fought for both the defense of Europe, and for the defense of the Faith which he so fervently clung to. Louis’s handling of the Crusade was a Christian one, dealing out mercy when it was needed, and issuing justice when it was required. He was a faithful man, who held God as his first priority in life, never failing to bring God’s grace into the ruling duties as King.

Joinville gives an excellent description of the nature of St. Louis, and gives a vividly accurate account of the Crusades in Egypt, giving a clear understanding from the eyes of a Knight in service to his King.  I highly recommend reading this book, especially if you are looking for a detailed and accurate explanation of one of the greatest campaigns in military history, and if you are looking for a man who faithfully fulfilled his duties to both Church and State.