An Empire of Memory

This book explores the evolving legend of Charlemagne and its impact on the relationship between East and West, particularly during the lead-up to the First Crusade, highlighting themes of identity and faith. An Empire of Memory delves into these historical currents.

An Empire of Memory explores the enduring legend of Charlemagne and its influence on the evolving relationship between the East and West during the early medieval period, particularly leading up to the First Crusade. Following Charlemagne's death in 814, his reign was reinterpreted by the inhabitants of his empire, who viewed it as a symbol of Christian universality, or Christendom. This retrospective mapping of contemporary Christendom onto the past allowed the borders of Charlemagne's empire to expand with each retelling, often incorporating the Christian East.

During the ninth to eleventh centuries, while the allure of Jerusalem grew stronger, it did not significantly alter the Charlemagne legend. Instead, the legend evolved through a unique blend of ideas that were shaped by social, cultural, and intellectual developments over the years. Interestingly, as the legend gained prominence, Charlemagne himself became less central to the narrative. The focus shifted towards the Frankish people, who believed they had once enjoyed God's favor under his rule and hoped to reclaim their esteemed place in sacred history.

The book delves into how the popular versions of the Last Emperor legend inspired the Franks with the promise of a future ruler who would reunite Christendom for the ultimate battle between good and evil. This mix of concepts surrounding empire, identity, and Christian religious violence served as a powerful motivator, encouraging individuals to take up arms and march eastward during the First Crusade, reinforcing their role as defenders of the faith. Through this examination, An Empire of Memory sheds light on the complex interplay between legend and historical identity in medieval thought.