This is a balanced portrait of Charles I of Anjou (1225-85), one of the most controversial figures of 13th century Europe, which offers an assessment of his extraordinary career including his pivotal role in the crusades. Jean Dunbabin explores how Charles was able to control a huge power block in the Mediterranean, where he ruled the province of Jerusalem and the kingdom of Naples, as well as Anjou, and how, as a result of his actions, the political map of Europe was re-drawn.