The Merovingians, Carolingians, and Charlemagne

"What picture of Charlemagne emerges from Einhard's biography?"


The picture that I see of Charlemagne in this biography is one of elegance and respect.  I see a man who worked to bring up his children in a secure environment, and I see a man who worked to beautify the place in which he lived.

For many, I believe that they will probably pay closest attention to the wars in which he fought, or perhaps they will particularly notice the power which he held.  I personally have little interest in the wars or politics.  I have interest in the description of the man, and aren't I supposed to be describing the picture of the man?

For me, the picture of Charlemagne that emerges from Einhard's biography is one which demands attention and wonder.  I see a man who was quite admirable.  That is the picture which I believe emerges from Einhard's biography.




"Discuss the shift in power from the Merovingians to the Carolingians.  Why did it occur, and how?"



First of all, the Merovingians were not exactly what I'd call skilled administrators.  For instance, they fought among each other in bloody slaughters between brothers and cousins.  They also would take place in human sacrifice.  Needles to say, these weren't the kind of people that you would like as your neighbors.

As time went on, a man named Pepin the Short came to power thanks to the Pope.  Pepin asked the Pope if it was right that a ruler whom did nothing had power, but the one who did something had no power.  The Pope said that was not right, and this is where the shift between power changed.

I hope that you have enjoyed this essay, and please let me know what you think!  I would love to hear from you!