Eleanor of Aquitaine part 3: Crusade to Odessa

The transcript details the events of the Second Crusade, initiated by Pope Eugenius III after Edessa's fall. King Louis VII and Queen Eleanor embark on the crusade, facing numerous challenges, including a difficult journey to Constantinople and a lack of resources. The German forces suffer a defeat, and the French army struggles with disorganization. The Turks seize the opportunity to attack, leading to a devastating loss for the French. Blame is placed on leaders, exposing weak military leadership and straining Louis and Eleanor's relationship.

What was the primary motivation for Pope Eugenius III to call for a crusade?

• To expand the papal territories

• To defend Christendom against Muslim forces

• To establish trade routes

• To gain political power

What was unique about Louis VII's participation in the crusade?

• He was the first to negotiate with the Turks

• He went alone without any family

• He traveled without any army

• He was the first king to lead a crusade

How did Eleanor of Aquitaine contribute to the crusade?

• She opposed the crusade

• She led her own vassals

• She funded the entire campaign

• She stayed behind in France

What misinformation did the Byzantine Emperor Manuel I provide to the French forces?

• That the Turks had surrendered

• That the German forces were victorious

• That the Pope had called off the crusade

• That the French had already won

What major challenge did the French and German forces face in the Anatolian landscape?

• Shortage of food and water

• Internal conflicts

• Desertion of soldiers

• Lack of weapons

Who was blamed for the disorganized march and subsequent ambush in the Fregean Mountains?

• Geffrard Duranton

• Pope Eugenius III

• Eleanor of Aquitaine

• King Louis VII

What was the impact of the ambush on the relationship between Louis and Eleanor?

• It had no impact

• It led to their immediate separation

• It caused a rift between them

• It strengthened their bond