Charlemagne: Father of Europe

Examine the life and times of Charlemagne and consider how history has shaped his story to serve various causes and agendas. Who was this ruler many call the “Father of Europe”?

Overview

Course No. 30250

Charlemagne remains one of history’s most controversial figures – celebrated for his intellectual and martial strength yet criticized for the atrocities committed under his reign. This 12-lecture course with Professor Philip Daileader of William & Mary examines:

• The Carolingian dynasty that shaped medieval Europe
• Charlemagne’s dual legacy as both unifier and conqueror
• How modern scholarship has revised traditional narratives
• The enduring myths surrounding his reign

You’ll explore Charlemagne’s world through multiple lenses: as emperor, family patriarch, military strategist, religious reformer, and Renaissance patron. The course reveals how subsequent generations have reinterpreted his legacy to serve their own historical moments.

Video Lectures

1. The Making of Emperor Charles the Great (31 min)
   Introduction to Charlemagne’s contested legacy and the political/religious context of 8th-century Europe.
2. Charlemagne as Heir and King, 748-800 (31 min)
   Charlemagne’s formative years and the evolving historical understanding of this period.
3. Charlemagne as Emperor, 800-814 (31 min)
   How imperial rule transformed Europe and shaped Charlemagne’s lasting reputation.
4. Charlemagne as Head of Family and Dynasty (30 min)
   The political consequences of Charlemagne’s complex family life with 19+ children.
5. Charlemagne as War Leader (32 min)
   Military strategies that unified Europe and medieval social structures affecting warfare.
6. Charlemagne as Ruler: Justice and Salvation (32 min)
   Governance philosophy focused on secular justice and spiritual salvation.
7. Charlemagne’s World: Britain to Baghdad (33 min)
   Diplomatic relations across Europe and the Islamic world.
8. Charlemagne as Patron of a Renaissance (33 min)
   Educational reforms challenging the “Dark Ages” narrative.
9. Charlemagne as Religious Reformer (33 min)
   Complex relationship with the papacy and religious institutions.
10. Charlemagne in Medieval Legend (32 min)
    How later generations remembered and mythologized the emperor.
11. Claims to Charlemagne Across History (35 min)
    Evolving interpretations from admirers and critics over 12 centuries.
12. The Enduring Fascination with Charlemagne (34 min)
    Reassessing whether Charlemagne merits the title “Father of Europe.”