Be a Perfect Man: Christian Masculinity and Carolingian Aristocracy by Andrew J. Romig
Peter Phillip Jones
Reviewed by: Be a Perfect Man: Christian Masculinity and Carolingian Aristocracy by Andrew J. Romig Peter Phillip Jones Romig, (Philadelphia: University of Pennsylvania Press 2017) 253 pp. puts forward novel approach with this concise yet provocative study aristocratic masculinity. Taking its title from the Liber Manualis, written Dhuoda Septimania for her son William in mid-ninth century, Romig's book argues that throughout realm—beginning during time dynasty's greatest ruler, Charlemagne—the aristocracy subscribed to discourse empathy centered on caritas, complex notion "complete all-inclusive love" (3), exercise which was highest calling male. A theological idiom empathy, traces caritas as an ideal living, writings Augustine Hippo at turn fifth century reigns Charlemagne, Louis Pious, his sons, before ending discussion caritas' weakening reconfiguration tenth century. Made up five chapters, plus introduction conclusion, work chronologically explores definitions, valuations, associations accompany through these centuries. Overall, makes persuasive case understanding Carolingians representing peculiar moment history, where lay religious authority became equally reliant upon same cultural valuation love, reliance limited hierarchization according one's access divine power. And while absence hard evidence prevents conclusions being demonstrated both ideology reality, subtle adjustments scholarly consensus seem permit more sensitive reading key texts. Where many have viewed attempts instate new moral norms kingdom having failed, compelling their (at least temporary) success. others seen only idiosyncrasy, teases out logic simultaneously familiarizes maintains distinctiveness ideology. In Chapter One, "The Authority Ascetic Male," articulates connection between asceticism, manliness, he goes frequently refer subsequent chapters. Beginning Hippo's interpretation New Testament ethics confrontations Stoic Manichean philosophies, identifies establishment linguistic terms such pietas, clementia, misericordia [End Page 270] shifted away concerns regarding proper balance severity leniency service justice, toward all-embracing love would become caritas. The philosophical position carved is then taken further configured Gregory Great into male Book Pastoral Rule. Two, "Manifestos Power," sets stage beginning arguably most important document renovatio: Admonitio Generalis. Countering previous document's intended scope success, places it squarely what sees ideological campaign culturally embed among Frankish aristocracy. Mediating opinions Charlemagne's state mind reforms articulated Admonitio, believes we can read Charlemagne strength weakness—a recognition Franks' unprecedented successes bringing realm under control, apprehension about future blessings, pledge redouble efforts be deserving those blessings. proceeds examine works Paulinus Aquileia Alcuin York, two champions reformatory manifesto. These eminent scholars adapted detailed Augustine, Great, "universal all men" (8). put hands aristocracy; Alcuin's writing encourage Eric Friuli Count Wido Brittany (respectively) embrace attests larger agenda. Three, "Louis...
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