Isabel of Spain: The Catholic Queen

Rating:
Summary: Fascinating story of a remarkable woman
Review: Dr. Carroll has again done a magnificent job of making history interesting. His portrayal of Isabel is gripping, his scholarly foundation is excellent, and his style is highly readable. I especially appreciated his comments on the Spanish Inqisition - a viewpoint you won't hear from most historians! Isabel is one of the most admirable women figures in the history of the world, and an excellent model for all women concerned with true feminism. Her humanity, intelligence, compassion, wisdom and courage are inspiring. Thank you, Dr. Carroll, for your service to the truth in bringing her so vividly to life.

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Summary: An apologia for Xenophobia
Review: In the most glowing terms, the author enamored of this Queen, makes excuses for her bad behavior. Using the "times" as a rationale, he mentions that she expelled the Jews, pursued the Moors, executed people who said they had converted to the Catholic religion. The inquisitions began under her reign. What, for heaven's sake is there to be proud of? However, this slavish tome does just that. She did have to fight for her rights as a monarch in a time when women were relegated to royal cows. That much I'll say, but this book mostly angered me. Now, if she had been forward thinking, I'd say that was something to read about.

Rating:
Summary: The authoritative biography.
Review: This is the most thoroughly researched biography of Queen Isabel found in English. Written by an American historian, it's surprisingly readable.