The Peoples of Sicily

<p>Can the eclectic medieval experience of the world's most conquered island be a lesson for our times? Home to Normans Greeks Arabs Germans and Jews it was for centuries a crossroads of cultures faiths and learning - the epitome of diversity. Here in the expanded second edition of this popular book one of Sicily's leading historians introduces the place where Europe Asia and Africa met where bilingualism was the norm divorce was legal the rights of women were defended and the environment was protected. All before 1250. This informative volume includes a general history of Sicily from the pre-historic era until 1500 with chapters on religion Sicily's historic ethnic groups (Greeks Normans Jews Muslims) prominent figures (Roger II Frederick II queens Margaret and Joanna Idrisi Bin Jubayr Benjamin of Tudela) the Sicilian language and cuisine and sites such as Monreale's abbey and Palermo's palatine chapel. There are maps genealogical tables a timeline reading list bibliography endnotes and more. This book is a fascinating read but also highly illuminating.</p><p></p><p></p>