Hincmar’s parish priests
Charles West
Of all Carolingian writers, it was Hincmar of Rheims who had most to say about the rural parish church ninth century. This chapter draws attention tensions that characterised Hincmar’s views on matter – parishes were both ancient and evolving, their priests separated from part community they served, under attack unchallenged. Rather than seeking resolve these in favour one side or another, argues reflected view as a microcosm whole. It further suggests such an approach helps us understand not simply teleological fashion underdeveloped version institution would only later be properly perfected, but bearing quite specific significance role own time.
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