Res Voluntaria, Non Necessaria: The Conquest and Forced Conversion of the Saxons under Charlemagne
Alexander Scott Dessens
This study focuses on Charlemagne’s conquest of Saxony in the late eighth and early ninth centuries policies forced conversion he espoused his attempts to bring peoples these territories Christian religion. Often remarked upon is Carolingian king’s prescription death penalty for failure be baptized, but this development was a logical consequence contemporary ideology with regard missionizing. I employ letters contemporaries, historical annals, hagiographical sources examine how use force missionizing viewed period, argue that expansion evangelization, not major theological stumbling block. The Alcuin York are special concern here because appears at times contradict this, yet as demonstrate he, along various popes other prominent theologians, armies convenient effective vehicles by which spread faith. efficiency military might outweighed any negative considerations. These arguments made against backdrop Saxon Wars, conflict lasting decades frustrations obstinacy Saxons further reduced likelihood peaceful means evangelization would considered.