Two Lives of Charlemagne comprises two contrasting biographies of Charlemagne. Einhard offers a factual account, detailing Charlemagne's achievements and character based on Roman biographical style. Notker the Stammerer presents an anecdotal portrait, focusing on legendary tales. Together, they provide a multifaceted view of Charlemagne’s life and legacy.

Informative

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.0

2,286 ratings

58%

Loved it

33%

Mixed feelings

Not a fan

Review Roundup

Two Lives of Charlemagne offers contrasting biographical perspectives. Einhard provides a detailed, admiring account, while Notker the Stammerer adds anecdotal richness with humor. Praised for historical insight, some find Notker's tales less reliable. The duality enriches understanding but may confuse those seeking consistent narrative.

Who Should Read Two Lives of Charlemagne?

Readers interested in medieval history and biographies will enjoy Two Lives of Charlemagne by Einhard and Notker the Stammerer. Comparable to fans of The Life of Charlemagne by Einhard and The Ecclesiastical History of the English People by Bede, it appeals to those curious about historical narratives and leadership.

4.0

2,286 ratings

58%

Loved it

33%

Mixed feelings

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Two Lives of Charlemagne offers contrasting perspectives on King Charlemagne's life, one from Einhard, who was a close associate and biographer, providing a more factual account, and the other from Notker the Stammerer, a monk known for his anecdotal and sometimes fictionalized storytelling.

Einhard, often compared to the Roman historian Suetonius, modeled his biography of Charlemagne on Suetonius's The Twelve Caesars, aiming to provide an account fitting within the classical tradition of emperor biographies.

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Notker the Stammerer, writing his account around 883–884, exhibited a tendency for embellishment and humor, often interweaving folklore and morality tales, showcasing medieval monastic perspectives on virtue and leadership.

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Book Details

Pages

227

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre

Classic Fiction

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French Literature

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Biography

Period