Charles the Bald: the Story of an Epithet
Margaret Audrey Anderson
For centuries, historians have followed the lead of their forebears by using standardized names to refer people and events. The use 'Charles Bald' Charlemagne's grandson has been reinforced via centuries copying, paraphrasing, citing historical documents. sobriquet is now inextricably linked man. But in simple process writing epithet, it easy forget how much complexity distilled into one word. Any sophisticated metaphors or hidden meanings nearly erased time. But, this word carries a wealth nuance meaning intentions. analysis nickname must attempt reconnect with medieval mindset understand reconcile simplicity epithet investigation Carolus Calvus (Charles Bald) consider not only Charles' own legacy physical reality, but also evaluate as part larger naming phenomenon. Furthermore, understanding way mind saw hair baldness instrumental possible deeper behind epithet. Was Charles Bald actually bald? Here are facts: first, true origin Carolingian epithets (nicknames given kings dynasty) will never be known, proliferation were certainly fueled need distinguish between overlapping Carolingians. Second, alliterative Calvus, could come from early 869 late 10th century. earliest written appears manuscript dated However, document copy text originally drafted before 869. Thus, either contemporary original created up century after his death added for clarity tenth copy. Third, Hucbald's incredible poem on baldness, Ecloga de (In Praise Men), was Charles, many once believed, does demonstrate that bald men ridiculed ninth symbolically ties virtue holiness. Fourth, grandson, Baldwin II Flanders known 'the bald' 11th century; he seemingly inherited despite being himself. In nickname, conclude obvious undeniable, simply bald. Regardless time these scholars spend analyzing other such Charlemagne Great), Louis Pious, Simple, 'obviously' From facts theories cultivated during thesis, however, there no reason believe truly There images descriptions king significant lack mocking enemies detractors. had adulthood poet Hucbald, who lived court time, address directly praising men. may called lifetime, adoption would suggest, yet nickname's recorded can It entirely byname its invented post-contemporary looking Carolingians make mark legacy. A non-physical symbolize any number things negative associations old-age, immorality, low status positive humility, piety, prudence. likely referenced symbolic infertility tied difficulty producing suitable male heir well subsequent sunset dynasty.