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Jerusalem Delivered

Written by Torquato Tasso

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Epic poetry, ItalianJerusalemCrusadesGodfrey, of Bouillon, approximately 1060-1100

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About this book

"Jerusalem Delivered" by Torquato Tasso is an epic poem written during the late 16th century. The narrative centers around the First Crusade as Christian knights, led by the noble Godfrey of Bouillon, strive to reclaim Jerusalem from Muslim control, filled with themes of valor, divine intervention, and the struggle between good and evil. The characters introduced include Godfrey, who is chosen as the leader of the crusaders, alongside his peers and notable figures such as Tancred and Baldwin, each representing distinct virtues and flaws amidst the larger conflict. At the start of the epic, Godfrey receives a divine message through the angel Gabriel, urging him to take action against the oppressive forces holding Jerusalem captive. As the Christian lords gather, they express their collective commitment to the cause, emphasizing themes of unity and courage in the face of adversity. The opening portion depicts Godfrey rallying his troops, while the narrative intricately weaves in reflections on morality, heroism, and the grave responsibilities that come with leadership. Characters like Tancred are introduced, hinting at personal rivalries and romantic entanglements that will further complicate the unfolding saga. The stage is set for an epic clash between valorous Christians and the formidable defenses of the city of Jerusalem.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Jerusalem Delivered, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 30 hours
  • advanced
  • epic
  • heroic
  • tragic

Torquato Tasso's "Jerusalem Delivered" is a sprawling 16th-century epic poem recounting the First Crusade, wherein Christian knights, led by Godfrey of Bouillon, strive to reclaim the Holy City from Muslim control. The narrative intricately weaves together tales of valor, divine intervention, and the profound moral struggles faced by its diverse cast of characters. While depicting an epic clash between faiths, the poem also delves into personal rivalries, unrequited love, and the seductive power of earthly passions that threaten to derail the sacred mission. Through its ornate verse and complex characterizations, Tasso explores the tension between religious duty and human desire, ultimately portraying the triumph of faith and unity over internal and external adversaries.

“O Muse, that not with fading laurels crownest Thy poet's brow, but in the heavens dost write His name, and with celestial glory ownest His worth, and mak'st him shine in purest light, Inspire my verse, and with thy fire enlighten My mind, that I may sing the holy fight.”

Key themes

Religious Piety vs. Chivalric Love/Desire
This is the central tension of the epic. Tasso explores the conflict between devotion to God and the sacred mission of the Crusade, versus the powerful, often distracting, forces of earthly love, desire, and personal glory. Characters like Tancred and Rinaldo exemplify this struggle, having to reconcile their spiritual duties with their passionate attachments.
The Nature of Heroism and Leadership
Tasso presents various models of heroism, from Godfrey's pious and strategic leadership to Rinaldo's raw, almost Achilles-like strength, and Tancred's chivalric but tragically conflicted valor. The poem examines what constitutes true heroism, both on the battlefield and in the moral arena, and the responsibilities that come with leadership.
Divine Intervention and Human Agency
The epic explicitly features divine and infernal forces influencing events, with angels, demons, and God's direct interventions guiding or hindering the Crusade. However, Tasso also emphasizes the importance of human choice, free will, and the virtues or flaws of individual characters in shaping their destinies and the outcome of the war.

Worth discussing

How does Tasso balance the demands of a Christian epic with elements of classical mythology and romance? Where do these elements complement or conflict with each other?

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