36 pages • 1 hour read
Peasant Fires: The Drummer of Niklashausen
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Book Brief
176
Book • Nonfiction
Rothenburg, Germany • 16th century
1992
Adult
18+ years
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
549 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
549 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
176
Book • Nonfiction
Rothenburg, Germany • 16th century
1992
Adult
18+ years
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