Masculinity without Conflict: Noblemen in Eighth- and Ninth-Century Francia
Rachel Stone
Around the middle of eighth century near Langres, in eastern France, a crime passionelle allegedly took place. The wife Gangulf, Burgundian noble, began an affair with cleric, but her husband discovered their wrongdoing. cleric then murdered Gangulf. What is unusual how we know about this story: cuckold and murder victim, became saint.1 church Melun received relics from him at its foundation 809 St-Pierre de Varennes was rededicated to by 870.2 Several versions his life were composed: first surviving one dates end ninth or early tenth century, over 60 copies text survive.3 His cult widespread Lorraine Germany. In second half Hrotsvit Gandersheim, author number religious poems plays, composed on Gangulf; collection Gangulf’s posthumous miracles also written Liege eleventh century.4 Although fame continued for centuries, however, I want focus vita (the ‘life’) implications our understanding masculinity Carolingian empire, vast area (eventually stretching Pyrenees Croatia) ruled Charlemagne successors between 768 century.5
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