A Clash of Thrones: The Power-Crazed Medieval Kings, Popes and Emperors of Europe

An approachable and engaging account of 450 years of savagery, treachery, triumph, and disaster 

Starting with the Great Schism in 1053 and ending with the discovery of the New World in 1492, A Clash of Thrones shows how kings relied on military campaigns and political intrigue while the Popes exploited their power struggles to their own ends. Islamic infidels and heretical religions are attacked by crusades that were not entirely "Christian" in their moral outlook. From the Holy Roman Emperor to the Knights Templar, powerful men and organizations all vied for dominion and plunder. Each country has its history and legends. Murder, campaigns, politics, intrigue, torture, marriage; you had to master them all to become a successful king. Poisoning, plague, illness, accidents; you had to avoid them all to remain a successful king. Here are the lives and deaths of the most important people in medieval Europe; the Heirs and their Disgraces.