Lepanto

"Lepanto," according to Hilaire Belloc, is Chesterton's greatest poetry and the greatest poem of his generation. However, not only have English students ignored this gem of rhyme and meter, but History classes have ignored the account of the key battle on which the poem is based.

This book includes the poem, the historical context of the legendary conflict, a fascinating recounting of the battle, and a discussion of its historical ramifications. The poem is properly annotated, and it is accompanied by two excellent essays written by Chesterton himself. Dale Ahlquist, a well-known Chesterton expert, has compiled all of the insightful commentaries and explanatory notes. Here is the story behind the modern conflict between Christianity and Islam, between Protestant and Catholic Europe, and the origin of the Feast of the Holy Rosary. A fascinating blend of literature, history, religion and romance!

“A valuable reference book that is also a great read!”

—Therese Warmus, Literary Editor, Gilbert Magazine

G.K. Chesterton was one of the most prolific and renowned literary writers of the 20th Century. Dale Ahlquist, author of G.K. Chesterton: Apostle of Common Sense, is the President of the American Chesterton Society.