In one paragraph, compare and contrast the similarities and differences found in the two accounts, and explain which account is more reliable.Use reasons and evidence from the readings to support your claim.

Answer:

Both accounts describe the Franks killing many people in Jerusalem and fighting around the Tower of David and the Temple of Solomon. They differ in their details: Ibn al-Athir says a group at the Tower surrendered and was allowed to leave, while Fulcher says no one was spared. Their estimates of deaths at the Temple also conflict—more than 70,000 in Ibn al-Athir’s account and almost 10,000 in Fulcher’s. Ibn al-Athir’s account seems more reliable because it distinguishes between those killed and the group whose surrender was honored, while Fulcher uses sweeping claims and vivid language. However, Ibn al-Athir’s very large death estimate also means neither account should be accepted uncritically.