Diversity and Convergence
Stefan Esders|Helmut Reimitz
Abstract This chapter is based on the paradox that whereas Carolingians used an imagined Frankish identity upon which to build their empire, very expedient of highlighting this ethnic catalyzed fragmentation empire as a whole. As core was strengthened, more peripheral communities those same mechanisms find voice own. During rise Carolingian Empire, new ruling dynasty dealt with reality and other identities within realm by reinforcing legal pluralism had grown out Roman Empire been further developed under Merovingian predecessors. In process, acts legislation came be much less legitimated central authority or office. They were agreements between rulers groups through acknowledged in exchange for confirmation grants rights privileges. The resulting interdependence claims status, however, intensified context power. But increasing politicization traditions communities, claims, also worked against political integration rule. Regional elites emphasized own customs vis-à-vis kings. imperial framework allowed accommodation all these different along variety ones Christian-imperial framework.
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