Paths to Kingship in Medieval Latin Europe, c. 950–1200

This engaging study explores how a ruler's subjects shaped both the idea and the reality of power in Medieval Europe.

Björn Weiler (Author)

9781316518427, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 14 October 2021

300 pages
23.5 x 16 x 3 cm, 0.83 kg

'Weiler gives us a strikingly innovative comparative history of medieval kingship. The work spans all of medieval (Latin) Europe, with meticulously uniform attention to the acquisition, contestation, and retention of royal office - in the context of political communities, and the nexus of norm and practice. An instantly indispensable, magnificent achievement.' Piotr Górecki, University of California, Riverside

Medieval Europe was a world of kings, but what did this mean to those who did not themselves wear a crown? How could they prevent corrupt and evil men from seizing the throne? How could they ensure that rulers would not turn into tyrants? Drawing on a rich array of remarkable sources, this engaging study explores how the fears and hopes of a ruler's subjects shaped both the idea and the practice of power. It traces the inherent uncertainty of royal rule from the creation of kingship and the recurring crises of royal successions, through the education of heirs and the intrigue of medieval elections, to the splendour of a king's coronation, and the pivotal early years of his reign. Monks, crusaders, knights, kings (and those who wanted to be kings) are among a rich cast of characters who sought to make sense of and benefit from an institution that was an object of both desire and fear.

Introduction. Part I. Foundations: 1. Politics and Power in High Medieval Europe, c. 1000–1200
2. Foundational Texts. Part II. Creating Kingship: 3. Becoming King
4. Conferring Kingship. Part III. Succession: 5. Duties, Norms and Process
6. Designating an Heir. Part IV. Election: 7. Unanimity and Probity
8. Choosing a King. Part V. Inauguration: 9. Enthroning the King
10. Beyond Enthronement
Conclusion.

Subject Areas: Medieval history [HBLC1], Early history: c 500 to c 1450/1500 [HBLC], European history [HBJD]