Life of Charlemagne
Quick Summary
Einhard's Vita Karoli Magni, or "Life of Charles the Great," is a 9th-century biography of Charlemagne, the Frankish king and emperor. Written by Einhard, a court scholar and friend of Charlemagne, the work draws on Einhard's 23 years of service and royal annals.12
The biography models itself after Suetonius's Lives of the Caesars, focusing on Charlemagne's family, achievements, personal tastes, and administration. While brief, it offers an accurate account of Charlemagne's life and the Carolingian era. Einhard's work is notable as one of the first medieval biographies of a lay figure and a significant example of the Carolingian Renaissance, a period of intellectual and cultural revival fostered by Charlemagne. The book aimed to preserve Charlemagne's memory and express Einhard's gratitude for his education and friendship.123
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
- Latin literatureThe Carolingian renaissance
830; Life of Charlemagne); of religious controversy, with Theodulfās Libri Carolini (defenses written at Charlemagneās request); and of theology, with John Scotus Erigenaās metaphysical masterpiece, the Periphyseon.
Read More830; Life of Charlemagne); of religious controversy, with Theodulfās Libri Carolini (defenses written at Charlemagneās request); and of theology, with John Scotus Erigenaās metaphysical masterpiece, the Periphyseon.
Read More 
biographyMiddle Agesā¦the 9th century: this was The Life of Charlemagne, written by a cleric at his court named Einhard. He is aware of his biographical obligations and sets forth his point of view and his motives:
Read Moreā¦the 9th century: this was The Life of Charlemagne, written by a cleric at his court named Einhard. He is aware of his biographical obligations and sets forth his point of view and his motives:
Read More