The Scope of Fidelity in Nithard’s Ninth Century
Owen M. Phelan
Nithard’s Histories, a remarkable first-hand account of how the Carolingian Empire built by Charlemagne was ripped asunder his feuding grandsons, provides more than simply lens through which to view events relevant political maelstrom battering world in 840s. The work’s basic structure, particular language, and principal concepts reveal coherent, consistent, poignant worldview offer modern scholars window into values perspectives common mid-ninth century. This article concentrates on analytical tools brings sharp focus deep continuity, its internal reasoning, sophistication, audience. Nithard analyzed as working according sacramental logic identified lapses fidelity fundamental problem. Basic Christian catechetical ideas profoundly inform analysis. consistency combined with omnipresent religious illumines broader elite discourse
Viator