Charlemagne's Dream

Charlemagne dreamed of much - of restoring the Roman empire, of creating a new Christian society, and of renewing scholarship, the arts, and the law. He warred and plundered and piled onto his head the crowns of the Franks and Lombards as well as the sacred diadem of the Roman empire. But in a vision, Charlemagne foresaw that his legacy would be wasted by his enemies and heirs, which it was. The story of Charlemagne and the Carolingians is one of hubris and nemesis, of fortune’s wheel, and of the wages of ambition. James T. Palmer tells it with authority, energy, and zest – Martyn Rady, author of THE HABSBURGSIn a gripping narrative, Palmer elucidates the highs and lows of the Carolingian dynasty, whose rulers oversaw one of the most formative periods in European history. In doing so, he has produced a tour de force that will appeal to scholars and general readers alike – David Woodman, author of THE FIRST KING OF ENGLANDA gripping account of the Carolingians’ bid to build a new golden age in Western and Central Europe by reviving the mighty legacy of ancient Rome … they profoundly shaped ideals of Western kingship, religion, and social life, and their most prominent member, Charlemagne, remains entrenched in popular perceptions as the “Father of Europe” – Peter H. Wilson, author of THE HOLY ROMAN EMPIREThe Franks, through the ruling Carolingian dynasty (including the legendary Charlemagne), come fully to life in these pages. James T. Palmer weaves together a story filled with vivid colors - solemnity and humor, barbarity and grace. This is historical scholarship, and historical storytelling, at its finest – Matthew Gabriele, coauthor of THE BRIGHT AGES and OATHBREAKERS

James T. Palmer is professor of history at the University of St. Andrews. The author of four previous books on medieval European history, he lives in Scotland.

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