Charlemagne

Source Review Einhard’s book “Life of Charlemagne” sung the praises of the Frankish king and all he had accomplished during his reign. Einhard himself was taken under Charlemagne’s wing (Charlemagne fostered him), and Charlemagne even paid for his education. I think that in light of that it is easy to see why Einhard would write such a positive narrative about Charlemagne and the kingdom he created. In Einhard’s writing Charlemagne is depicted as hardworking, charismatic and always willing to learn something new or take on a difficult task. According to Einhard Charlemagne found the best tutor he could and learned about many things that were new to him including mathematics and astronomy. Einhard also speaks about Charlemagne’s devotion to the Christian religion and his troubles with the Saxons and their practice of “demon-worshipping”. Charlemagne is praised for his efforts against the Saxons as well as his moderation of food and drink, particularly the fact that he abhorred drunkenness. In my opinion, I think that Charlemagne probably did encompass many of the virtues that Einhard wrote about. I find it admirable that as a grown man, even though it was a struggle for him, Charlemagne continued to practice his writing. To me that shows a great deal of perseverance. It seems like Charlemagne was a natural leader (I guess it would be odd if he wasn’t seeing as he was raised to be a King), and endeared himself to those in his inner circle by being willing to actually actively participate in his kingdom and how it was run. I think that he wanted his people to see him as more of a Father figure and as someone that they could come to rather than untouchable royalty. I think that Charlemagne cared about his people a great deal and that comes through in his many public works projects including public places of worship and bridge and road systems.

In the 780’s Charlemagne issued a set of legislation regarding the Saxons and the subsequent Christianization of