Competition and tradition
Carolingian political rituals, 751-800
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36399/GroundingsUG.7.218Keywords:
Carolingian, Francia, Political, Ritual, Legitimisation, SpiritualAbstract
In 751, the Carolingians supplanted the traditional ruling dynasty of Francia. This article surveys Carolingian political rituals between 751 and 800, and argues that ritual was one means through which this new royal family sought to construct and legitimate its authority against its dynastic competitors. This article also highlights the neglected spiritual dimension of many of these rituals. Whilst tradition often formed an important part in these ceremonies, early medieval ritual was not static, and there is evidence of innovation and improvisation. The meaning of rituals was also unfixed, as reflected and conditioned by competing textual accounts.
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