penitential state, The
Book Description
In the turbulent world of ninth-century Francia, a dramatic confrontation between earthly power and divine accountability unfolds when Emperor Louis the Pious faces an unprecedented crisis. After his own sons rebel against him, Louis makes a startling choice that would reshape medieval concepts of leadership and spiritual responsibility.
Mayke de Jong reveals how this emperor's public act of penance became far more than personal atonement. It transformed into a profound exploration of what it means to wield authority while remaining answerable to a higher power. Through careful examination of contemporary writings, this study illuminates a fascinating period when political leaders grappled with the weight of moral responsibility in their governance.
The book uncovers a world where the boundaries between political missteps and spiritual failings blur, where rulers and their advisors engaged in intense debates about legitimate authority during times of upheaval. Rather than viewing penance as weakness, these medieval thinkers understood it as a potential source of renewed strength and legitimacy.
For readers interested in the intersection of spirituality and leadership, this work offers compelling insights into how accountability, repentance, and moral authority operated in a society where divine judgment was considered the ultimate measure of earthly power. It presents a unique perspective on how spiritual principles shaped political discourse and practice in medieval Europe.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~9 hours)
📄 Length: 317 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Religion
- ✓ Explore Monarchy--history
- ✓ Explore Church history
- ✓ Explore Repentance--political aspects--france--history--to 1500
- ✓ Explore France, history, to 987, sources
- ✓ Explore Monarchy--france--history--to 1500
- ✓ Explore Church and state, france
- ✓ Explore Atonement--political aspects--history
