Life in Charlemagne’s world

Why does Charlemagne matter?

Charlemagne’s kingdom arose out of the scattered pieces of the declining Roman Empire, but also out of a vibrant Christian culture.

Charlemagne was a paradox: a warrior who fostered scholarship, a man capable of ruthless rule and devout piety

Were the Saxon wars really driven by the desire to convert these pagans?

Irish scholars, bards, and scientists were recruited to serve in Charlemagne’s court

The coronation of Charlemagne entwined state and church from his day to ours

Charlemagne founded it. So what was it?

The Middle Ages had many renaissances before "The Renaissance"

How Charlemagne transformed education.

Alcuin reformed education at court and established a palace library

His life is a mystery, but not his influence

Alcuin of York instructs Charlemagne's son

How Charlemagne and the Byzantine Empire misunderstood each other

Everyday life in the eighth and ninth centuries

Whatever happened to the Holy Roman Empire?

How medieval poets turned a border skirmish into a foundational medieval legend

A modern theologian reflects on where Christendom is today

Recommendations by CH editorial staff and this issue’s contributors