The Last Templar: The Tragedy of Jacques de Molay, Last Grand Master of the Temple

The Last Templar: The Tragedy of Jacques de Molay, Last Grand Master of the Temple

by Alain Demurger (Author)

Synopsis

A Pioneering investigation into the last days of the mighty Knights Templar and their last Grand Master by one of France's greatest medieval scholars. The end of the mighty Order of the Temple is one the great stories of the Middle Ages. In 1307 Philip the Fair, the devious King of France, brought one of the most powerful and wealthy institutions in the world to trial - and to an ignominious end. Jacques de Molay, the Temple's last Grand Master, was at the heart of the events in which the chivalric ideal was ousted by treachery and greed. In this pioneering investigation one of France's great medieval scholars describes Jacques de Molay's dazzling career and provides a vivid retelling of the drama of his and his Order's last days. De Molay's life took him from Burgundy to a career in the Middle East. Elected head of the Temple he had to face the loss of the Latin Crusader States. He withdrew to Cyprus and dreamed of the reconquest of Jerusalem. Summoned to France by the Pope for discussions, he was caught up in the King of France's trap, and burned at the stake for refusing to repudiate his order.

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More Information

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 304
Edition: Main
Publisher: Profile Books
Published: 29 Apr 2004

ISBN 10: 1861975295
ISBN 13: 9781861975294

Media Reviews
This is probably the definitive account not only of de Molay, but also of the political and financial factors at play in the closing years of the Temple. -- Kevin McClure * Fortean Times *
Scrupulously detailed. -- Jerty Brotton * The Times *
A scrupulously scholarly analysis. -- C. J. Tyerman * Times Literary Supplement *
The Order of the Temple and its mysteries exercised Kings and Popes then, and continues to fascinate today as its role in The Da Vinci Code shows. This is a pioneering investigation into the fall of the mighty Knights Templar and their last Grand Master by one of France's greatest medieval scholars - 'a complex story of greed, chivalry, and, ultimately, execution. * Good Book Guide *
A well researched and thorough book. -- Alex Heminsley * Observer *
Author Bio
Attached as Honorary Senior Lecturer to the University of Paris, Alain Demurger is a specialist in the history of the Crusades and the Military Orders.