Consider the nature and goals of the First Crusade. How does it compare to later Crusades? How did the conception and execution of crusading change over time?

Compare Zangi, Nur al-Din, and Saladin. How does Maalouf characterize these men? How are they similar or different in their attitudes and achievements? What is their wider significance in the narrative?

Maalouf often explores the problem of leadership in the Crusades, particularly within the Muslim world. How does Maalouf define weak leadership, and how does he define effective leadership? What role does leadership play in the success or failure of crusading in his analysis?