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King and Emperor

A New Life of Charlemagne
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( 243 ratings, 42 reviews)
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
In King and Emperor, Janet L. Nelson provides an insightful biography of Charlemagne, delving into his reign and influence as a transformative figure in European history. The book explores his conquests, governance, and the establishment of his empire, highlighting how he shaped the medieval world. Nelson's work offers a rich, detailed portrait of Charlemagne's political and personal life, balancing historical fact 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?

You might enjoy this biography if you're fascinated by medieval European history and want a deeper understanding of one of its most influential figures. With a detailed exploration of power dynamics, politics, and the life of a pivotal ruler, this compelling narrative could captivate anyone interested in historical leadership and its enduring impact.

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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 acclaimed biography of one of the most extraordinary of all European rulers.

Charles, King of the Franks, is one of the most remarkable figures ever to rule a European super-state. That is why he is so often called 'Charles the Great'—by the French 'Charlemagne', and by the Germans 'Karl der Grosse'.

King and Emperor by Janet L. Nelson brings together everything we know about Charlemagne and sifts through the evidence to come as close as we can to understanding the man and his motives. Nelson has an extraordinary knowledge of the sources, and much of the book is a sort of detective story, prying into and interpreting fascinating material and often obdurate scraps, from prayer books to skeletons, gossip to artwork.

Above all, Charles' legacy lies in his deeds and their continuing resonance. His successors—in some ways to the present day—have struggled to interpret, misinterpret, copy or subvert Charlemagne. Nelson gets us as close as we can ever hope to come to the real figure, as understood in his own time.

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?

King and Emperor by Janet L. Nelson receives high praise for its detailed and engaging portrayal of Charlemagne. Critics applaud Nelson's ability to piece together a vivid picture from challenging texts, noting her masterful detective-like narrative style. The book is recognised for both its scholarly depth and its accessibility, offering readers profound insights into Charlemagne's character and historical significance.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780241305256

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 01 October 2020

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 30.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 199.0mm

Weight: 480g

Pages: 704

About the Author

Janet L. Nelson DBE is Professor Emeritus of Medieval History at King's College London, where she taught for many years. She has written and translated widely on early medieval Europe, her books including- Charles the Bald (1992), The Frankish World (1996) and Courts, Elites, and Gendered Power in the Early Middle Ages (2007). She lives in London.

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