Book XII Summary and Analysis

When Bohemund reached Lomardy, he did not waste time amassing forces to occupy Illyria. He sought a matrimonial alliance with the King of France and had another of his daughters may Tancred. Then he collated troops. Alexius received notice but at this time the Sultan of Cairo, the Babylonian, was crushing imperial troops. Alexius is pulled at both ends, but many Counts fought against Bohemund's attempt to turn his people against the Emperor. Yet Alexius still needed troops to defend against the Franks.

Tancred then proceeds against the Empire in Cicilia and Alexius sent troops to repel him. Alexius wanted to travel the western countries and compelled Empress Irene to accompany him. Anna then proceeds to laud the glories of her mother and father together. Alexius must now organize his defenses against the Franks in the West. At this...