his book gives historical narrative
history of the Knights of the Temple of Solomon, or Knights Templar as they
are more commonly known. It primarily focuses on the activities of the Knights
in the Holy Land and their participation in the crusades.
hat sets this book apart from a standard
history text is the author's attempt to explain the politics of the time
that influenced the formation and decisions of the Order. Howarth has succeeded
in this attempt and gives the reader a good feel for the motivations of the
main players, not only in the Order itself, but also the various kings, princes,
priests, popes, and other assorted characters who influenced the courseof
the Holy Wars and the fate of the Order.
he book is written in a style that
is easy to read and sometimes seems more like a novel than a history. But
don'tlet the author's style fool you, the book presents the Order in a factual
and mostly unbiased fashion. Howarth occasionally lets his opinion of the
character (or lack of character) of historical figures into the book, but
these comments are easily identified and do not affect his presentation of
facts.
his book does not try to support any
of the popular myths about the Templars, with one exception. It suggests
that the Shroud of Turin may have been the mysterious head that the Templars
were accused of worshipping, though this support of the theory is presented
as speculation rather than an established fact. Howarth suggests the shroud
may have been acquired during the sack of Constantinople where it may have
been known by the name of "Mandylion". This Mandylion was known to have existed
prior to the sack and was said to have been an image of Jesus.
verall, this book is a fine presentation
of the history of the Templars and the crusades. The book also contains an
extensive bibliography and an index.
Publication data: ISBN 0-88029-663-1, Barnes & Noble, New York,1993
