To What Extent Can We Attribute Responsibility for Instances of Persecution in History to the Influence of Powerful Individuals?

This essay is going to focus upon Richard the Lionheart (1157 - 1199), whose very name is synonymous with courage and bravery. He is also recognised by the title ‘Lionheart’, as opposed to the legacy that most Kings and Queens leave, where they are recognised by a mere number; this stresses his importance as an historical figure. If there is a conclusion drawn by the majority, popular folklore would lead us to believe that Richard was the greatest King of the Middle Ages, particularly if the comparison is made against his brother King John, who myth again would believe was one of the weakest1 . Personally he was a man who displayed many fine attributes, such as being a man of culture, who would write poetry and songs, he was said to be attractive in his looks, which featured alongside a charming and chivalrous nature. Importantly, he was reported as being of a very pious nature, however, these Christian religious beliefs, where would one expect values of compassion and mercy to be at the forefront, is where one of the incongruities of his personality becomes apparent. As a man, and King, the legacy he left was that of a ruthless, cold-hearted, violent murderer. This essay will attempt to explore the extent to which his personality was responsible for the atrocities that took place throughout the persecution of the Jews and the Saracens in the 3rd Crusade, while considering the social climate at the time, which may have contributed to his actions.

Richard was born to King Henry II of England and the French born Eleanor of Aquitaine; he was the 3rd of 4 legitimate children and therefore he was never expected to ascend to the throne. When he was young his parents separated, his mother was granted custody and he grew up with her in France; reports also indicate that due to his French upbringing, Richard never really learned to speak English. Throughout his life he had serious adversities with his father - Henry II - this came to a head when he sided with his...