German Emperors as Exemplary Rulers in William of Malmesbury and Otto of Freising
Alheydis Plassmann
One of medieval Germany's most celebrated histories, Otto Freising's Historia de Duabus Ciuitatibus , or as he himself called it De Mutatione Rerum penned between 1132 and 1146, is often cited evidence that the so-called Twelfth-Century Renaissance reached Germany. studied in Paris wrote excellent Latin, which seems to prove this point. Nevertheless, while twelfth-century historians looked for their inspiration works classical learning, Otto's work deeply influenced by Augustine's Ciuitate Dei his model not Roman thought. Although treatment Augustine rather innovative, still adheres Church Father's late antique pessimism. cast mould providential history, – at least theory treats whole world its subject. As narrative progresses, tries bring light God's actions world, also emphasising no human can really perceive will. In doing so, however, somewhat ambivalent. Sometimes rise after Investiture Controversy leads him suggest final disunion ciuitas permixta (the mixed state), drawing near therefore Judgement Day far distant. At other times, think will be followed decadence decline, had been case with every empire down own times. great work, Gesta Friderici is, first sight, astonishingly different. Begun 1156, commissioned nephew Barbarossa himself, characterised a more positive view history world. describes beginnings Frederick Barbarossa's reign new dawn way turns 's imminent end upside down. However, despite these two seemingly incompatible texts, internally consistent, Hans-Werner Goetz has pointed out. simply chose analyse turn events differently gained throne. saw it, power cycle was about begin who gets benefit it.