36 pages 1 hour read

Richard M. Wunderli

Peasant Fires: The Drummer of Niklashausen

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1992

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Peasant Fires: The Drummer of Niklashausen by Richard M. Wunderli recounts the story of Hans Behem, a German peasant and musician who, in 1476, claimed to have visions of the Virgin Mary instructing him to urge pilgrims to visit her shrine in Niklashausen. Preaching against corrupt clerics and advocating for social equality, Behem's movement attracted many followers, leading to tension with church authorities, who ultimately executed him.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Richard M. Wunderli's Peasant Fires has received mixed reviews. Positively, it's praised for its engaging narrative and vivid portrayal of medieval folklore. However, critiques often mention its speculative approach and occasional lack of historical rigor. Overall, it offers a fascinating yet controversial glimpse into socio-religious dynamics of the era.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Peasant Fires?

A reader who enjoys Peasant Fires by Richard M. Wunderli would likely have an interest in medieval history, social movements, and religious phenomena. Fans of Barbara Tuchman's A Distant Mirror and Carlo Ginzburg's The Cheese and the Worms would appreciate this engaging exploration of a 15th-century peasant rebellion.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

History: European

Religion / Spirituality

Class

Period

Medieval Literature / Middle Ages

Themes

Society: Class

Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality

Genre

Education