The Early Middle Ages and Beyond

The Carolingian empire originated from a man by the name of Charles Martel. Martel served as mayor of the palace of Austrasia, one of the three major areas controlled by the Merovingian dynasty, around 714. By defeating the Muslims near Poitiers, Charles Martel became the ruler of the three Merovingian kingdoms, placing his family on the edge of creating a new dynasty. After Charles Martel’s death in 741, his son Pepin overthrew the Merovingians and assumed the kingship for himself. Pepin was crowned king a

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Charlemagne’s nobles were granted part of these territories as lifetime holdings in return for assisting him (Spielvogel, 212). Contraception and abortion was therefore prohibited, and thus led to a large amount of unwanted or illegitimate offspring due to those that were seduced and did not want to keep their infants (Spielvogel, 216). “On Christmas Day 800, after mass, Pope Leo placed a crown on Charlemagne’s head and proclaimed him emperor of the Romans” (Spielvogel, 213). This empire created a distinct European identity that changed that part of the world forever. To sweeten foods and drinks such as wine and ale, honey was utilized. Aristocratic society consumed large amounts of spicy foods more as a sign of prestige and wealth rather than for taste (Spielvogel, 218). Spices such as thyme, sage, and chives were grown in home gardens.

The Carolingian Empire allowed the lands north of the Alps to become the political center of Europe for many years, but eventually disintegrated into smaller countries after the death of Charles the Great and his son, Louis the Pious. The Carolingian empire was divided into three major sections to Charles the Bald (west Frankish lands), Louis the German (eastern lands), and Lothair (North Sea to Italy).

Charles the Great aided in the development of his empire by playing a large role in the expansion of the Carolingian kingdom. Carolingian monks also created new ways of making books by writing on pages made of parchment or sheepskin. Charlemagne was a righteous leader however, and had many loyal followers that would use force to ensure loyalty whenever necessary. The position was appointive, so their children could not inherit the office. The church tried to emphasize its role in marriage by enabling priests to add their blessings.

For a burn, if a man be burned with fire only, take woodruff and lily and brooklime; boil in butter and smear therewith.

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Approximate Word count = 2109
Approximate Pages = 8 (250 words per page double spaced)

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