Nearly 1,000 years after the first Crusade, Crusader language and imagery continue to appear in mascots, films, cartoons, video games, sports culture, political rhetoric, and public life. What meanings do these symbols carry—and what happens when history becomes a framework for dividing the world into heroes and enemies?
In this 12.5-minute video, ICJS scholars examine the history and cultural afterlife of the Crusades from Christian, Jewish, and Muslim perspectives. They explore how a “Crusader mentality” can reinforce an “us versus them” worldview, make violence appear righteous, and influence how religious and cultural communities understand one another.
The video is not intended to provide a comprehensive history of the Crusades. Rather, it offers a starting point for considering how historical narratives and symbols continue to shape contemporary culture—and how dialogue, historical understanding, and religious pluralism can offer a different way forward.
ICJS offers a free discussion guide designed to help groups explore the video’s central questions. Each guide can be adapted for a 30- to 60-minute session.
Designed for congregations, community organizations, continuing education programs, and other adult learning groups, this guide includes opening reflection questions, facilitated discussion prompts, and opportunities for personal and community application.
Download the Adult Group Discussion Guide
After viewing the video and participating in discussion, learners will be better prepared to:
A transcript is available for those who prefer to read the video, wish to review a particular passage, or require a text-based version of the content.
[Read the Video Transcript]
Explore ICJS resources on dialogue across difference, including our video and guide, 10 Tips for Dialogue, Not Debate.
For a deeper examination of the subject, view the three-part ICJS course, The Crusades: Are We Prisoners of Our Interreligious History?