For this past week, I have ventured into the curious world of the Middle Ages and, in particular, the Crusades. The most important lesson of all was the very first one- right and wrong, good and bad, demons and saints, they are all completely dependent upon the perspective you take.
For this week, my perspective was that of the Byzantine Empire. This group simply wanted to be the best, and keep their culture thriving. In the beginning, trade was very strong, and was a huge support for their economy. Then a conquer-crazy leader and an invasion by Arab forces nearly destroyed them. Desperate, the Byzantines called for help against the Seljuk invaders, a precautionary measure to make certain the Byzantine Empire would not fall. The pope calls for Christians to fight against the demon-worshippers, and the Crusades begin anew.
Perspective is a HUGE factor in the outlook of any situation. The Crusades looks completely different from the eyes of the Muslims and Christians.
This is why keeping an open mind is so important.
For this week, my perspective was that of the Byzantine Empire. This group simply wanted to be the best, and keep their culture thriving. In the beginning, trade was very strong, and was a huge support for their economy. Then a conquer-crazy leader and an invasion by Arab forces nearly destroyed them. Desperate, the Byzantines called for help against the Seljuk invaders, a precautionary measure to make certain the Byzantine Empire would not fall. The pope calls for Christians to fight against the demon-worshippers, and the Crusades begin anew.
Perspective is a HUGE factor in the outlook of any situation. The Crusades looks completely different from the eyes of the Muslims and Christians.
This is why keeping an open mind is so important.