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Charlemagne

Father of a Continent
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Charlemagne by Alessandro Barbero offers an insightful and detailed portrayal of the life and reign of Charlemagne, King of the Franks and later Emperor of the Carolingian Empire. Through vivid storytelling, the author explores Charlemagne's political and military achievements, the cultural and religious impact of his rule, and his enduring legacy as a central figure in European history. This biography provides a comprehensive look at an iconic medieval ruler, combining historical analysis with engaging narrative.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you are fascinated by the Middle Ages and enjoy exploring the life and legacy of influential historical figures. It offers an engaging narrative about a ruler who shaped European history, combining rich detail with insightful analysis.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The most important study of Charlemagne in a generation, this biography by distinguished medievalist Alessandro Barbero illuminates both the man and the world in which he lived. Charles the Great—Charlemagne—reigned from A.D. 768 to A.D. 814. At the time of his death, his empire stretched across Europe to include Bavaria, Saxony, parts of Spain, and Italy.

With a remarkable grasp of detail and a sweeping knowledge of Carolingian institutions and economy, Barbero not only brings Charlemagne to life with accounts of his physical appearance, tastes and habits, family life, and ideas and actions but also conveys what it meant to be king of the Franks and, later, emperor. He recounts how Charlemagne ruled his empire, kept justice, and waged wars.

He vividly describes the nature of everyday life at that time, how the economy functioned, and how Christians perceived their religion. Barbero's absorbing analysis of how concepts of slavery and freedom were subtly altered as feudal relations began to grow underscores the dramatic changes that the emperor's wars brought to the political landscape.

Engaging and informed by deep scholarship, this latest account provides a new and richer context for considering one of history's most fascinating personalities.

Charlemagne offers readers a detailed and nuanced exploration of a pivotal figure in European history.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Alessandro Barbero's Charlemagne offers a detailed and engaging portrait of the medieval ruler, praised for its excellent translation and accessible yet scholarly approach. Reviews note the author's light touch and ability to vividly depict the historical socio-economic repercussions of Charlemagne's wars. The work is described as both entertaining and informative, effectively conveying complex historical debates to a broad audience.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780520297210

Publisher: University of California Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 23 February 2018

Country: United States

Imprint: University of California Press

Illustration: 1 map

Contributors:

  • Translated by Allan Cameron
  • Translated by Allan Cameron
  • Translated by Allan Cameron

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 28.0mm

Width: 152.0mm

Height: 229.0mm

Weight: 590g

Pages: 440

About the Author

Alessandro Barbero is Professor of Medieval History at the University of Piemonte Orientale, Italy. In addition to writing about medieval society and culture, he is the author of the historical novel Bella vita e guerre altrui di Mr. Pyle, gentiluomo, which won the Strega Prize in 1996. Over a period of twelve years, Allan Cameron has translated some twenty books on history, philosophy, and other academic disciplines, including works by leading Italian philosopher Norberto Bobbio and President of the European Commission Romano Prodi.

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