How myths about Saladin cast a spell over the Middle East

The Complex Legacy of Saladin: Separating Myth from Reality

Saladin, the medieval warrior and sultan who united Muslim forces against the Crusaders, has long been a figure of fascination and reverence, particularly in the Middle East. His legacy has inspired countless stories, both factual and fictional, and has been invoked by various leaders throughout history. Among his modern admirers was the late Saddam Hussein, who, during his interrogation by a CIA officer, expressed deep admiration for Saladin—not for his military conquests, but for what he believed was Saladin’s humane treatment of his enemies.

Saddam’s admiration was based on a story he had heard—likely from a popular Egyptian film of the early 1960s—about how Saladin, disguised as a commoner, entered the tent of his enemy Richard the Lionheart to cure him of an illness. However, this charming tale is nothing more than fiction, originally conceived by Sir Walter Scott and later popularized in a 1935 Cecil B. DeMille film.

This is just one example of how the name of Saladin resonates in the modern Middle East. While the West often sees Saladin as a model of chivalry, shaped by both historical facts and literary embellishments, the reality of his life and character is far more complex.

The Historical Saladin: A Life Beyond Myth

Jonathan Phillips’s new book on Saladin goes beyond the myths to offer a nuanced biography, grounded in modern historical scholarship. Born in 1137 in the town of Tikrit (coincidentally, the birthplace of Saddam Hussein), Saladin came from a Kurdish family that rose to prominence under the patronage of Nur ad-Din, a powerful ruler who extended his control over large parts of modern Iraq and Syria.

Saladin’s military and political career began in earnest when his uncle led an expedition to invade Egypt. Saladin quickly proved his capability, eventually taking control of the government in Cairo. After Nur ad-Din’s death, Saladin asserted his authority over Syria, setting the stage for his future conquests.

Despite his association with the concept of jihad, Saladin’s rise to power was not driven by a singular religious mission. His campaigns involved complex political maneuvering, including alliances and conflicts with other Muslim rulers. His eventual conquest of Jerusalem in 1187 was a significant achievement, but it was part of a broader strategy of continuous expansion, driven as much by the need for resources as by religious zeal.

The Military Commander and the Man

Saladin’s reputation as a military leader is well-deserved, particularly after his decisive victory at the Battle of Hattin and the subsequent capture of Jerusalem. However, his military prowess was not without flaws. Phillips’s account of Saladin’s campaigns reveals moments of strategic missteps and the physical toll that years of warfare took on him. In his later years, Saladin suffered from debilitating illnesses, yet he continued to lead his forces, demonstrating remarkable determination.

But what of Saladin’s character? The historical record offers a mixed picture. While Saladin is often celebrated for his acts of clemency and generosity—such as his treatment of prisoners and his gift-giving to enemies—these moments are contrasted with instances of brutality, including the massacre of captured knights after Hattin and the execution of men who had been promised safety.

Saladin’s personal generosity was also notable, though perhaps excessive. When he died, only 37 coins were found in his treasury, suggesting that his approach to wealth was as reckless as it was charitable. Phillips highlights the importance of Saladin’s advisors in managing his affairs, suggesting that without their guidance, his rule might have been less stable.

The Mythical Saladin: A Symbol of Resistance

Saladin’s legacy extends far beyond his lifetime. Over the centuries, he has been invoked by various Muslim leaders as a symbol of resistance against foreign invaders. From early chroniclers to modern figures like Osama bin Laden, Saladin’s image has been adapted to serve contemporary agendas. Even in the West, Saladin has been romanticized as the epitome of chivalry, a perception shaped largely by literary works rather than historical fact.

However, as Phillips’s book reminds us, the true story of Saladin is far more intriguing than the myths that have grown around him. While the opportunistic use of historical figures is inevitable, understanding the reality of Saladin’s life provides valuable insights into the complex world of the 12th-century Middle East, where politics, religion, and personal ambition intertwined in ways that are both familiar and foreign to us today.

One major lesson from this exploration of Saladin’s life is that the facts of the past are often more compelling than the myths they inspire. By peeling back the layers of legend, we can appreciate the real achievements—and shortcomings—of a man who left an indelible mark on history.