Reviews

The Devil's Historians: How Modern Extremists Abuse the Medieval Past by Amy S. Kaufman, Paul B. Sturtevant

zabiume's review

informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

4.0

Very informative, very necessary! I learned a LOT from this book, and I'm very fond of this particular genre of non-fictional historical works that dismantle popular misconceptions. By limiting themselves to the Middle Ages, the authors manage to capture a lot of nuance and complexity of the time instead of just glossing it over in favor of casting a wide net. I found many of the things discussed in the book very interesting and relevant. The most important takeaway for me was the way we tend to look at history in very simple, categorized terms. In reality, human beings of the past are not too different from human beings in the present, and this sentiment changed my worldview + filled me with a lot of humble awe and admiration. What atrocities we seem to be capable of, but also—what achievements! It's so important to understand the diverse range of opinions and experiences people have, and if this book taught me anything, it's to avoid making monoliths of entire groups of people or entire time periods in history. I also like the simple, engaging language used in this book; it made for a very accessible read. 

Yes, there are some sections that feel repetitive, but it wasn't a big enough flaw to lose me. I'm glad I read this book and I'm grateful for the effort that went into writing it! Would love to read similar books that dismantle popular misconceptions about other time periods! I'm sure there are many! Until then, this was a good read. 

octopus_farmer's review

informative fast-paced

4.0

It was a good primer, though I wish they had cited some of their medieval sources more. Great for a classroom.