Paper Summary:

This paper examines how the Carolingian Empire, which united most of Western Europe under one ruler in the late eighth century AD, was based on the domination of the Franks, including some of the greatest European kings who ever ruled. It focuses on the rule of Charlemagne and how his reign is considered the apogee of the empire for several reasons. It looks at how he conquered much of Europe, promoted the spread of Christianity and generally improved his people's way of life.

From the Paper:

"Like Clovis I, Charlemagne was a devout Christian and a firm believer in education and therefore was a great supporter of both the clergy and faculty. "Charlemagne practised the Christian religion with great devotion and piety, for he had been brought up in this faith since earliest childhood" (Einhard, 104). He built a great Cathedral, called Holy Mother of God in Aachen and donated a great deal of money and relics to monasteries, churches and other religious institutions. He often personally chose which person would be appointed to a given position within the church, based on how wise and virtuous the candidates were. Not only did he further and improve religion in his own realm, by conquering other territories he spread Christianity's influence."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Einhard. Two Lives of Charlemagne. New York: Penguin Book, 1969.
• Gregory of Tours. The History of the Franks. New York: Penguin Book, 1996.
• Medieval Sourcebook: The Law of the Salian Franks, Title LIX. Concerning Private Property. http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/source/salic-law.html

Visitors who viewed this Term Paper also liked these:

• Analytical Essay # 1462 : "The Collapse and Contributions of the Carolingian Empire"
• Research Paper # 91241 : "The Greatness of Charlemagne"
• Analytical Essay # 4541 : "The Life and Achievements of Charlemagne"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: