Charlemagne Essay, Research Paper
Maple/ McBride
HONR- 1114
12-09-99
By the Cross and the Sword : Charlemagne’s Impact on the West.
“He who ordains the fate of kingdoms in the march of the centuries, the all-powerful Disposer of events, having destroyed one extraordinary image, that of the Romans, which had, it was true, feet of iron, or even feet of clay, then raised up, among the Franks, the golden head of a second image, equally remarkable, in the person of the illustrious Charlemagne.
Notker the Stammerer, the monk of St. Gall, wrote these words in AD 844 to describe the reign of the most influential Frankish king Charlemagne ( Lectures 1). Charlemagne, son of Pepin the Short, ruled the Franks for 47 years (Koeller 1). The Carolingian Dynasty, of which Charlemagne was a member, was established in AD 751 when Pepin dethroned the last Merovingian king. The Carolingians ruled a land that “spoke several different tongues, had different cultural and historical traditions, and different institutions.”(Nelson 2). The great variation found in the people of the Frankish kingdom produced for Charlemagne great obstacles. Dr. Skip Knox, Professor at Boise State University argues that the “monarchy among the Franks was not equipped to deal with this situation…” (Knox 11). Attempting to establish control in his empire, Charlemagne implemented a series of programs that would produce a new form of government and would engage his court in an intellectual renaissance.
Charlemagne was forced to entirely reinvent the Merovingian system of government, and to do so he “either created new offices, or adapted old ones to new purposes…” (Knox 11). He appointed dukes and counts, and appointed in the German regions of the land margraves, an office that would remain long after the time of Charlemagne. Thus, Charlemagne created a political hierarchy in which the counts would report to the dukes, and the dukes to Charlemagne himself.
Charlemagne gained the loyalty and respect of his barons by leading them on numerous successful military campaigns (Knox 10). He also insisted that his nobles be educated, and formed at his palace a school under the direction of the scholar Alcuin (Nelson 3). With Alcuin as the “minister of education”, the place school began what is known as the “Carolingian Renaissance”. This characterization is supported by the desire of the emperor to rebuild the Roman Empire and rule in the same manner as the roman emperors.
It is this renaissance that impacts the Western world today, more than any of Charlemagne’s military conquests. In Charlemagne’s palace school at Aachen, one finds the ideals and aims of the Carolingian renaissance most definitively.
Palace schools were not unheard of in the Frankish kingdom. The Merovingians established a school to train young nobles to fight, and how to conduct themselves at court. At the time, however, no academic knowledge was being imparted. The only schools that taught academics were at monasteries and cathedrals. Charlemagne altered the palace school into a center of learning and knowledge (Carolingian Schools 1). He hired scholars to teach, and appointed Alcuin to oversee the school. Charlemagne required Alcuin himself to instruct the royal family in reading and writing.
In addition to the palace school, Charlemagne made many decrees concerning the education of his people (1). His “Charter of Modern Thought” required that the monasteries be concerned with “the study of letters” (2). In yet another decree Charlemagne ordered that teachers “who are both willing and able to learn” be hired and “let them apply themselves to this work with a zeal equal to the earnestness with which we recommend it to them” (2). Knox argues again on this point saying “Charles’ court at Aix-la- Chapelle was a beacon for men of learning, and the king funded their activities. It was from these, and others, there originated a burst of activity that would have a strong influence on medieval intellectual life” (Knox 14). Charlemagne provided not only for the sons of the nobles, but of the commoners as well, and issued a decree that they could not be turned away from studying, saying “if any of the faithful wish to entrust their children to them to learn letters, that they [the priests] refuse not to accept them but with all charity teach them…” (Carolingian Schools 2).
Much of what was done at Aachen was the work of Charlemagne’s advisor, Alcuin. Alcuin studied at York, and represented the ideas found in that school of learning. Each of the decrees Charlemagne made was at the advice of Alcuin. It is said that “the voice is the voice of Charles, but the hand is the hand of Alcuin…” (Alcuin 4). Alcuin was appalled that monks and scribes on one side of the empire were unable to read the hand of the monks and scribes on the far side of the kingdom. Alcuin proceeded to universalize the writing, creating what is known as the “Carolingian miniscule” (Snell 1). This handwriting became the basis of the lowercase alphabet used today in modern English. Alcuin encouraged scholars to translate and preserve ancient texts, to ensure that future scholars would have them available for study. He also created the curriculum that would be followed for years to come, requiring study of the seven liberal arts (Encyclopedia Dot Com 1). Because of the work done by Alcuin, There is a continuity from the Carolingians to the later Middle Ages that not even the disruptions of the tenth century could erase. (Knox 17).
Much of what we know about Charlemagne’s life comes from his biographer, Einhard. Einhard was placed in charge of Charlemagne’s public buildings, and oversaw the building of the Aachen cathedral. Charlemagne sent Einhard abroad to deal diplomatically with foreign dignitaries, and considered Einhard a trusted advisor. Einhard was also enamored with the ancient Romans, and attempted to write his biography of Charlemagne in the manner of the ancient Roman historians. Einhard took his position very seriously and writes about it in the preface to “The Life of Charlemagne”.
“Since I have taken upon myself to narrate the public and private life, and no small part of the deeds, of my lord and foster- father, the most lent and most justly renowned King Charles, I have condensed the matter into as brief a form as possible. I have been careful no to omit any facts that could come to my knowledge, but at the same time not to offend by a prolix style those minds that despise everything modern, if on can possibly avoid offending by a new work men who seem to despise also the masterpieces of antiquity, the works of most learned and luminous writers.” (Einhard 2)
The biography begins with the Merovingian family, and concludes with Charlemagne’s will. It includes not only the highlights of his reign, but also his dress, his manner, and his appearance (Einhard 8-10).
The impact of Charlemagne’s reign on western thought is untold. He managed to spread literacy and Christianity to a land that was previously illiterate and savage. His school at Aachen regained the glory of the Roman lyceums that were once hailed as the worlds greatest centers of learning. The magnificence of his person and his reign can be explained best in these words, written by his trusted biographer, when he says that he might have been deterred from “writing if I had not made up my mind that it was better to risk the opinions of the world, and put my little talents for composition to the test, than to slight the memory of so great a man for the sake of sparing myself,” (Einhard 3).
“Alcuin”. The Concise Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia. 3rd Ed. Columbia University
Press. 1994. November 21, 1999. encyclopedia
“Alcuin”. The Catholic Encyclopedia Vol. III. Robert Appleton Company,
New York. 1908.
“Carolingian Schools”. The Catholic Encyclopedia Vol. III. Robert Appleton Company,
New York. 1908.
Einhard. The Life of Charlemagne. S.E. Turner, trans. Harper and Brothers; New York,
1880.
Knox, Skip “Charlemagne”. History of Western Civilization. Boise State University.
August 27, 1999. November 18, 1999.
history.boisestate.edu/westciv/charles/01.htm
Koeller, David. “The Reign of Charlemagne” North Park University. 1999. November
21, 1999. campus.northpark.edu/history/WebChron/WestEurope/Charlemagene.html
Kreise, Steven. “Lectures on Ancient and Medieval History”. The History Guide.
August 13, 1999. November 12, 1999.
pagesz/%7Estevek/ancient/lecture20b.html
Nelson, Lynn. “The Collapse of the Carolingian Empire” Lectures University of
Kansas. November 18, 1999.
ukans.edu/kansas/medieval/108/lectures/carolingian%5Fempire%5Ffall.html
Snell, Mellisa. “What Made Charles So Great?”. About dot Com, 1999 November 12,
1999. historymedren.about/library/weekly/aa091598.htm
Другие работы по теме:
Charlemagne S Appreciation Of Essay Research Paper
Charlemagne s Appreciation of Learning 1. Why was Charlemagne so anxious to raise the educational standards of both the clergy and laity of his empire? 2. Why has Charlemagne been regarded as one of the greatest kings of the Early Middle Ages?
Romeo An Juliet Essay Research Paper hi
Romeo An Juliet Essay, Research Paper hi i need an essay about a character in romeo and juliet that demonsrtated maturity. in a well developed multi pagraph essay and say why you think the character’s maturity was greater than the other characters in the play.
How To Play Basketball Essay Research Paper
Plant Collection While the animal collection is often considered to be the Zoo’s major attraction, the botanical gardens should not be overlooked. The Columbus Zoo has more than 800 species of plants placed around the grounds to enhance exhibits and walkways. The botanical collecton, valued at more than $3 million, is the largest living collection at the Columbus Zoo.
Carolyngian Rennaisance Essay Research Paper Carolingian Renaissance
Carolyngian Rennaisance Essay, Research Paper Carolingian Renaissance Charles the Great s rule made a lasting impression on Europe. His rule began in 768A.D. As he defeated many enemies, he compelled them to accept the Church of Rome. In 800A.D., Pope Leo III crowned him Holy Roman Emperor. During his reign Charlemagne dedicated himself to strengthening the church and bringing learning to his empire.
Rocket Essay Research Paper comes to hockey
Rocket Essay, Research Paper comes to hockey, both groups share a deep passion. English-Canadians proudly cheer for their Toronto Maple Leafs, while the French-French and English
Oh Really Essay Research Paper Oh Reallyyou
Oh Really? Essay, Research Paper Oh Really, you think i am a lark, the dogs they run and bark, but when i say to them, shut up shut up shut up, you say to be nice to them,
Nature Trail Essay Research Paper During lab
Nature Trail Essay, Research Paper During lab our class took a trip to the nature trail. As soon as we stepped on to the trail we saw disturbance from the hurricane that came through about three years. Throughout
Feudalism 2 Essay Research Paper Feudalism was
Feudalism 2 Essay, Research Paper Feudalism was a system of living in Western Europe. It started during the years 900 and 1000. Here is a brief description of feudal Europe. After Charlemagne s empire, Europe was again divided into many kingdoms. Most of the kings had little control of their kingdoms. As a result, hundreds of vassals-with such titles as prince, baron, or duke- became independent rulers of their own fiefs.
Judith Herrin Carolingian Innovation From The
Formation Of Christendom Essay, Research Paper ?Through efforts Charlemagne?s father, Pippin, that dynasty dominated majority Western Europe ? strong position, Aquitaine problematic, continues his father, Cahrles Martel?s
Charlemagne Essay Research Paper We know a
Charlemagne Essay, Research Paper We know a good deal about Charles the Great because we have two biographies of him written by men who were close to him. The more important of these is by Einhard.
Temperate Deciduous Forest Essay Research Paper Temperate
Temperate Deciduous Forest Essay, Research Paper Temperate Deciduous Forest Temperate deciduous forests are found in all of the continents except Antarctica. Temperate deciduous forests are most commonly found in eastern US, Europe, western Asia, parts of Australia, and Canada.
Feudalism Essay Research Paper Feudalism began between
Feudalism Essay, Research Paper Feudalism began between the 8th and 9th centuries. It was first recognized in France, and later spread to most countries of western Europe. When Charlemagne died there was no strong ruler to take his place. That was when feudalism was established as the main system of government and way of life in Medieval Europe.
Shane Essay Research Paper Sometimes I need
Shane Essay, Research Paper Sometimes, I need you more than I need air And sometimes I miss you more than I will forever, never forget the times that we have shaared. The are priceless
Charlemagne Essay Research Paper Charlemagne Charlemagne
Charlemagne Essay, Research Paper Charlemagne Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great, became the undisputed ruler of Western Europe. As Western Europe was deteriorating Charlemagne was crowned the privilege of being joint king of the Franks in 768 A.D. People of Western Europe, excluding the church followers, had all but forgotten the great gifts of education and arts that they had possessed at one time.
Charlemagne 2 Essay Research Paper CharlemagneI think
Charlemagne 2 Essay, Research Paper Charlemagne I think that one of the most important people in the medieval time was Charlemagne. He was the son of a man named Pepin the Short, like his father before him became king of the Franks.
Charlemagne 3 Essay Research Paper Charlemagneby Javier
Charlemagne 3 Essay, Research Paper Charlemagne by: Javier V lez Charlemagne was an ambitious king, aggressive and cruel, but was really good when having to deal with expansion and organization. His greed made him conquer many regions and build a large empire made up of 250 counties. Charlemagne was determined to strengthen his realm and to bring order to Europe through organization and dedication.
Charlemagne Essay Research Paper Charlemagne was a
Charlemagne Essay, Research Paper Charlemagne was a Frankish king and Roman emperor who lead his armies to victory over many other people and countries. He established rule of western and central Europe and became the most influential king of the Middle Ages. He was also the descendent of the great Pepin the Short and the grandson of Charles Martel.
Charlemagne Essay Research Paper Charlemagne The KingWe
Charlemagne Essay, Research Paper Charlemagne The King We know a good deal about Charlemagne because we have two biographies of him written by men who were close to him. The more important of these is by Einhard. He describes Charlemagne as being moderately tall, around six feet tall and powerfully built with a thick neck and deep chest.
Charlemagne By The Sword And The Cross
Essay, Research Paper 12/99 Charlemagne: By the Sword and the Cross “By the sword and the cross,” Charlemagne became master of Western Europe. It was falling into decay when Charlemagne became joint king of the Franks in 768. Except in the monasteries, people had all but forgotten education and the arts. Boldly Charlemagne conquered barbarians and kings alike.
The Iliad And Song Of Roland Essay
, Research Paper The Iliad and Song of Roland: Attitudes Toward War The Iliad by Homer and Song of Roland are two enjoyable novels that both deal with the basic nature of war. They are set in different eras of history, but they both manage to depict the image of war and conquest very well. With that said, they do indeed share obvious plot characteristics.
The Coronation Of Charlemagne Essay Research Paper
Through out history rulers and those in power have often sought greater control and attempted to secure more authority. During the Middle Ages power was usually obtained by either being victorious in battle, inheritance, or by entering in some sort of contract. One of the most powerful of all rulers during the Middle Ages was Charlemagne other wise know as Charles the Great .
Poem She Sat Essay Research Paper She
Poem: She Sat Essay, Research Paper She sat… helpless in her room praying to whatever god there may be to let her call to him. could god ignore such a painful cry?
Johan Guttenberg Essay Research Paper Johann GutenbergChoosing
Johan Guttenberg Essay, Research Paper Johann Gutenberg Choosing the man of the millennium is a big job. There are so many candidates to be evaluated, for instance, Martin Luther King Jr., Christopher Columbus, and Charlemagne are among the few people to be considered. One other candidate to be considered was Johann Gutenberg.
Sociology Of Power Essay Research Paper
Kingship crucial to political workings of all kingdoms ? dynasticism very important as were strong kinship tires in binding together monarchies ? also problematic ? Charlemagne forbade sons
Athletes Salaries 13 Essay Research Paper It
Athletes Salaries 13 Essay, Research Paper It is the Stanley Cup final, the Toronto Maple Leafs are playing against the Buffalo Sabres. With one minute left in regulation time the game is tied at 1-1, the fans are cheering and the anticipation begins to rise as the time on the clock slowly decreases. Steve Thomas of the Toronto Maple Leafs, sees an opportunity and goes for the puck.
Ode To Boys Essay Research Paper We
Ode To Boys Essay, Research Paper We like them But do they like us The ones we do never fuss They don’t stop in And we wonder why We stress, we bitch We sometimes cry
Logistics Of Power Essay Research Paper
Carolingians ? Charlemagne could not visit or directly rule various lands ? local and regional aristocracies remained ? Bavarians fought as Bavarians ? establishment of a son in a sub-kingdom