Includes bibliographical references and index.

"Martyrdom is one of the most significant religious issues facing the world in the twenty-first century. While once praised as heroes prepared to die for their beliefs, since 9/11 the figure of the martyr is more likely to invoke fear and suspicion of their extreme uncompromising commitments. While today, the martyr might be associated with Islam, martyrdom was and remains a significant factor in the development of Christianity and Christian identity, and was no less controversial. From its origins as a small persecuted sect at the fringes of the Roman Empire to the world's largest religion, martyrdom has been a crucial element in Christian identity formation. This unique and authoritative volume brings together more than 30 authors to reflect on the contested place of martyrdom in Christianity from its troubled beginnings, the fires of the Reformation, expansion throughout the world, to the present day"--