DOC The Pilgrim Journey: A History of Pilgrimage in the Western World by James Harpur in History

Review

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful. Icons; Relics; History; Societies; Faith and Friction all beautifully researched and presented to the readerBy Sheila DeethA history of pilgrimage in the Western world will inevitably invite the reader to ponder some interesting questions; about faith’s history and practice if nothing more. James Harpur’s well-researched The Pilgrim Journey introduces readers to pilgrimages; icons and relics; from Christianity’s earliest times; comparing and contrasting past and present; the practices of different faiths; and the hopes and aspirations of rich and poor through passing centuries. It’s a smoothly written; fascinating read; which neatly addresses the excesses that led to the Reformation; the mysteries of more recent Marian appearances; and the spirituality of people through all ages.Added to the religious implications; author James Harpur looks too at the geographic components of pilgrimage; and the historical records of those who undertook these journeys. An inspiring image appears of the historical world; through war and peace and everything in between; with small towns and nations obliging; encouraging and benefiting from pilgrimage; just as the pilgrims themselves benefit from devotion; labor and love.I wasn’t sure what I would make of such a serious historical read; but I really enjoyed it—an intriguingly different aspect of the past; rarely touched upon; but reassuringly real and generously portrayed.Disclosure: I was given a copy and I offer my honest review.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. let me start by saying that I really enjoyed this bookBy Howard KramerAs a history lover and a fan of religious travel; let me start by saying that I really enjoyed this book.The research was impressive. I thought I knew a lot about religious pilgrimage; but Harpur's book was full of a historical tidbits that were completely new to me. I especially enjoyed the descriptions of travel in the Middle Ages; famous pilgrim hostels; and the like. Anyone who considers themselves a serious history wonk; especially European history; will get a kick out of the details.The writing was also very good. It was in depth without being dry; as books like this so often are. My only real criticism was the ending. Would have liked to read more about pilgrimage in the modern age; and possibly some commentary about how so many important pilgrimage sites have been destroyed in recent decades.Anyway; if you're planning a visit to a Christian church in Europe or Israel in the near future; read this before you go.Howard KramerThe Completer Pilgrim