Urban and the Council of Clermont Essay

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There are many accounts of that day in November, 1095. Some were written by monks, others by bishops, and even a few by warriors themselves. Historians are constantly asking, "What exactly did Pope Urban II say at the council of Clermont to persuade Christians to set forth on such a difficult venture as the Crusades?" One man, an early 12th century cleric named Fulcher of Chartres wrote perhaps the best historical chronicle of the events at Clermont and the speech of Urban II.<br><br>Fulcher begins his account with a prologue that states how blessed the journeymen of the Crusades were to take up such a conquest. He follows this by speaking on the Council of Clermont. Fulcher describes Pope Urban II and what he heard was happening to the …show more content…
This might also push the clergy to recruit soldiers in hopes of saving both of their souls. <br><br>Threats of His judgement are used by Urban as a method to gain what he wants from his people and clergymen. He first states that if the clergy do not help the people, they will be doomed themselves. Later, Urban announces a similar warning to the people by saying: "O how many evils will be imputed to you by the Lord Himself, if you do not help those who, like you, profess Christianity"6 Fulcher, 53. He used the same technique to convince the clergy of his view. Whatever works use it, right?<br><br>The account of the Council of Clermont and the speeches of Urban by Fulcher of Chartres is one that gives one a unique understanding of the Crusades. Though it may have been a factor, Fulcher's chronicle allows historians to see that perhaps there was more to the start of such an escapade than just the fear of Muslims. Fulcher is historical proof to the importance of writing, and its role in understanding the