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Why did Gerbert of Aurillac become archbishop of Reims in 991?

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Sylvester II Sylvester II, detail from the ivory vessel used at the consecration of Otto III, 996; in the Domschatzkammer des Aachener Domes, Aachen, Ger.

Gerbert of Aurillac (later Sylvester II) became archbishop of Reims in 991 following the deposition of his predecessor, Arnulf, by a council at Saint-Basle de Verzy.1

The events leading to this appointment were rooted in political conflict:
* Betrayal: King Hugh Capet had originally appointed Arnulf as archbishop, but Arnulf subsequently betrayed the city of Reims to his uncle, Duke Charles of Lorraine, who was attempting to dethrone the king.1
* Deposition: After Hugh Capet captured both Charles and Arnulf in March 991, the council at Saint-Basle de Verzy formally degraded Arnulf for his actions.1
* Election: Following Arnulf's removal, Gerbert was elected as the new archbishop.1

Although Gerbert administered his duties capably, his election became a source of significant controversy with the papacy, eventually leading to his departure from France and his later elevation to the papacy as Sylvester II.1