The Buddha didn't want to be worshipped and no reliable historical account of him exists. The whole book is speculation. If you want to study buddhism read a book about buddhism not this book.

Gotama (Buddha) was convinced that life was dukkha: filled with pain, grief and sorrow.

Karen Armstong's writing is very comprehensible and discerning. She correctly understands Buddhism as an "essentially psychological religion". In this short, 187-page book, she discusses the life of Buddha and his quest to free himself from greed, ignorance (self-deception) and hatred. This quest brought him to Nibbana, where self no longer exists and pain is vanquished (Narvana).

Armstrong is very helpful in reminding the reader that Gotama existed in a historical context that was full of men and women seeking enlightenment. His time was one of social change, spiritual upheaval and he was one of many seeking an inner-direction, a place of peace.

Yet, this compelling and illuminating biography critically critiques Gotama's misogamist tendencies. He was, says Armstrong, a man full of negative feeling about women and their abilities. He initially refused to admit women to the Sangha, but after much pressure he gave his permission, but not without harsh restrictions. Women had to accept eight strict rules and "the nuns were an inferior breed," says Armstrong. For example the first rule was that a nun must always stand when in the presence of a male bhikkhu, even one who was young or newly ordained. The other seven rules are equally degrading.

This is an excellent biography on Buddha that will open up his life and teaching to the general public. Highly recommended