After Empire

Exploring the customs and beliefs of migrating tribes, After Empire reveals how these influences shaped modern Europe from the fall of Rome to the ninth century.

In After Empire, the authors delve into the intricate customs and beliefs of the barbarian tribes that migrated westward into Western Europe following the decline of the Roman Empire. These migrations, occurring from the fourth to the ninth centuries, significantly influenced the cultural and social landscape of Europe. The book explores how these tribes, often perceived as 'barbarians,' settled in regions vacated by indigenous populations, such as the Celts, and how their interactions shaped the future of the continent.

The studies presented in After Empire aim to recover the lost narratives of these populations, despite the absence of detailed historical records. The contributors examine the traits and attitudes that emerged during this transformative period, which laid the groundwork for many aspects of modern European society. Key themes include the rise of feudalism, the evolving status of the merchant class, and the early notions of church-state separation. The book also discusses the decline of slavery as a mode of production and the formation of national identities.

With contributions from esteemed scholars like Giorgio Ausenda and Julian D. Richards, After Empire offers a comprehensive understanding of how the migrations of barbarian peoples shaped the cultural fabric of Europe. By analyzing these customs and beliefs, the authors provide valuable insights into the roots of contemporary European identity and social structure.