Question

From Charlemagne’s General Capitulary for the Missi

What does the General Capitulary for the Missi reveal about Charlemagne’s vision of himself and his empire? In what ways were his Christian beliefs central to both? Why might Charlemagne have considered it necessary for all freemen to swear an oath of fidelity to him as emperor? How was the notion of fidelity crucial to the success of his government? What do the articles suggest about the means by which Charlemagne sought to unify his empire?

Answer 1

• Charlemagne’s vision of himself and his empire are similar due to the fact he wants the best, but he revolves religion around everything he is doing. People of his empire must live under the Christian beliefs and it is central to both Charlemagne’s vision of himself and his empire, because you must behave in a mannered way and respect the rules under the Christian faith.
• Charlemagne considered it necessary for all freemen to swear an oath of fidelity to him as emperor so that he knows his followers are loyal and that he knows he will feel safe around his people. I am sure Charlemagne is watching out for himself so that the people do not start any conflicts with him. Fidelity is crucial to the success of government so that there is no law broken, people keep appropriate and that the emperor stays safe.
• In the articles it suggests that Charlemagne sought to unify his empire by having them take an oath so that all understand. He did not want no one left out, he wanted freedom,authority and fairness to all his people.