The Mediterranean World of Alfonso II and Peter II of Aragon (1162-1213) (The New Middle Ages)

Vitality and change marked twelfth- and thirteenth-century medieval Mediterranean society.  Many sought to capitalize upon resurgences in economic success, political intrigue, and social cohesion.  Alfonso II (1162-1196) and his son Peter II (1196-1213) of the Crown of Aragon worked diligently to augment their regional success.  Yet the sources relating the internal workings of these developments are, by themselves, insufficient for appreciating the scope and potential of these opportunities.  Considering a wide array of sources reveals the tenacity with which Alfonso II and Peter II forged a tighter Mediterranean regional network ready to respond to urgent needs and enduring concerns.