Henry Martyn, Saint and Scholar: First Modern Missionary to the Mohammedans, 1781-1812

"Henry Martyn, Saint and Scholar" by George Smith is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work chronicles the life and legacy of Henry Martyn, who is remembered as the first modern missionary to the Mohammedans during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The narrative focuses on his spiritual journey, his commitment to Christianity, and his mission work across cultures, particularly in India and Persia. The opening of the book sets the stage for Martyn's early life, detailing his upbringing in Cornwall and education at St. John's College, Cambridge. It discusses the influences that shaped his character, including his family's background and the religious environment of the time, particularly Methodism under John Wesley. The text emphasizes Martyn's struggle between his academic ambitions and his growing sense of calling to missionary work, reflecting on his intellectual pursuits and personal challenges as he moves toward a life dedicated to serving God and evangelizing, particularly among Muslims in the regions where he traveled.