The Life of Charlemagne

Description

If becoming the King of the Franks in 768 and the King of Italy six years later wasn’t impressive enough, it is also worth remembering that Charlemagne was the very first Holy Roman Emperor to be crowned. After the fall of the Roman empire, the void of power in Europe was quickly filled by this ambitious and learned leader who sought to unite large parts of the entire continent under his rule. Charlemagne is known throughout history as one of the greatest leaders and most influential figures to ever rule in Europe.

Since Charlemagne sought to surround himself with scholars from all fields, it stood to reason that he would also appoint historians, one of whom was given the trying and honored task of recording a detailed account of the King’s life and accomplishments. However, Einhard was no ordinary scholar. His background allowed him to be educated by the monks of Fulda – one of the most prestigious learning institutions on the Old Continent – and he quickly became a master of language, as well as a worthy history scholar whose literary model was the Roman historian Suetonius.

Einhard was given the task to write the Vita Karoli Magni, or The Life of Charlemagne, by the King’s son, who would later become his successor, Louis the Pious. He was appointed court historian due to his exceptional knowledge and skill, and soon came to be friend to one of the most remembered and influential leaders of the Dark Ages.

Shedding light on the reign of Charlemagne, as well as his character, life choices, ambitions and accomplishments, this book is one of the most thorough and well-written historical biography you will find. It offers ample details about Charlemagne, both as a leader and as a man, and can be counted among the most valuable historical manuscripts to outline what life was like in an age that still remains to this day quite lacking in accurate and relevant historical sources.
[amz_corss_sell asin=”1776663977″]