New Books in Critical Theory John Eldevik, "Reading Prester John: Cultural Fantasy and Its Manuscript Contexts" (Arc Humanities Press, 2024)
Jul 6, 2025
John Eldevik, a Professor of History at Hamilton College, delves into the captivating legend of Prester John, a mythical Christian king from the Middle Ages. He discusses how a forged letter ignited European imaginations and prompted discussions on religious conflict and global Christian identity. Eldevik examines manuscript culture, revealing how texts shaped perceptions of the East during the Crusades. Alongside Morteza Hajizadeh, he also highlights intricate storytelling traditions that influenced medieval narratives. It's a fascinating exploration of how fantasies can reflect and influence real-world issues.
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Discovery of Prester John Legend
- John Eldevik discovered the legend of Prester John while researching medieval manuscripts in Vienna.
- He realized the story's manuscript history could form a distinct and fascinating book topic.
Medieval Christian Utopian Fantasy
- Prester John was imagined as a powerful Christian emperor ruling a distant, exotic land beyond Islam.
- Europeans hoped he could be a Crusader ally, shifting political and religious power balances.
Prester John Letter Goes Viral
- The letter of Prester John, forged in the 12th century, circulated widely and "went viral" in medieval Europe.
- It described a utopian empire filled with wonders and Christian unity, evolving as people added new details.