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Richard M. Wunderli

Peasant Fires: The Drummer of Niklashausen

Richard M. WunderliNonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1992

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Book Brief

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Richard M. Wunderli

Peasant Fires

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1992
Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Period
Setting

Rothenburg, Germany • 16th century

Publication Year

1992

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Peasant Fires: The Drummer of Niklashausen by Richard M. Wunderli recounts the story of Hans Behem, a German peasant and musician who, in 1476, claimed to have visions of the Virgin Mary instructing him to urge pilgrims to visit her shrine in Niklashausen. Preaching against corrupt clerics and advocating for social equality, Behem's movement attracted many followers, leading to tension with church authorities, who ultimately executed him.

Informative

Mysterious

Contemplative

Dark

Reviews & Readership

3.8

549 ratings

51%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

17%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Richard M. Wunderli's Peasant Fires has received mixed reviews. Positively, it's praised for its engaging narrative and vivid portrayal of medieval folklore. However, critiques often mention its speculative approach and occasional lack of historical rigor. Overall, it offers a fascinating yet controversial glimpse into socio-religious dynamics of the era.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Peasant Fires?

A reader who enjoys Peasant Fires by Richard M. Wunderli would likely have an interest in medieval history, social movements, and religious phenomena. Fans of Barbara Tuchman's A Distant Mirror and Carlo Ginzburg's The Cheese and the Worms would appreciate this engaging exploration of a 15th-century peasant rebellion.

3.8

549 ratings

51%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

17%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Period
Setting

Rothenburg, Germany • 16th century

Publication Year

1992

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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