Renovatio imperii Romanorum: quando Crescentius decollatus suspensus fuit. An analysis of the meaning of Otto III’s first lead bulla
Sauro Marzocchi
The legend Renovatio imperii Romanorum, which appears on the lead bulla adopted by Otto III in April 998, was emblematic defining persona of this emperor. Since nineteenth century, text has been identified with communication to empire a programme reform. However, notion that had programmatic value is not substantiated literary, archival or linguistic sources. In no document did announce an intention for imperial reform and nor he show any interest planning – meaning words therefore needs reconsideration. historical context appearance seal 998 merits wider discussion. study, contemporary sources, least bullae themselves, are reviewed, leading redefinition original celebratory function bulla’s legend.
Journal of Medieval History