If war is in principle justifiable for Christians, how do we make sense of failed military ventures sponsored by the church? This morning seminar will host wide ranging discussion on just war theory specifically as applied to the Crusades, but to more recent conflicts as well, especially the invasion of Ukraine. Students will read both a compelling Christian case for Christians in warfare (Nigel Biggar’s In Defense of War) and a recent book that shows a Christian visual response to the disaster of the Crusades (Matthew Milliner’s Mother of the Lamb) that also bears on the war in Ukraine. Participating students will be provided with both books, and with breakfast and lunch. After short presentations by Professors Taylor and Milliner, contributions to our formal, open-ended and free-ranging discussion from all students will be expected.
