You are here

Back to top

The Book of Emperors: A Translation of the Middle High German Kaiserchronik (WV MEDIEVEAL EUROPEAN STUDIES) (Paperback)

The Book of Emperors: A Translation of the Middle High German Kaiserchronik (WV MEDIEVEAL EUROPEAN STUDIES) Cover Image
By Henry A. Myers (Editor)
$44.99
Usually Ships in 1-5 Days

Description


The Kaiserchronik (c.1152–1165) is the first verse chronicle to have been written in a language other than Latin. This story recounts the exploits of the Roman, Byzantine, Carolingian, and Holy Roman kings and rulers, from the establishment of Rome to the start of the Second Crusade. As an early example of popular history, it was written for a non-monastic audience who would have preferred to read, or may only have been able to read, in German. As a rhymed chronicle, its combined use of the styles of language found within a vernacular epic and a factual treaty was a German innovation. The Book of Emperors is the first complete translation of the Kaiserchronik from Middle High German to English. It is a rich resource not only for medieval German scholars and students, but also for those working in early cultural studies. It brings together an understanding of the conception of kingship in the German Middle Ages, from the relationship between emperor and king, to the moral, theological, and legal foundations of claims and legitimacy and the medieval epistemological approaches to historiography. This translation includes a substantial introduction that discusses the historical and philological context of the work, as well as the themes of power and kingship. Each chapter begins with a brief introduction that distinguishes historical truths from the epic fiction found within the original text.

About the Author


Henry A. Myers is Professor Emeritus of History at James Madison University.

Praise For…


“A significant contribution in History, Cultural Studies, and German Studies.”
Siegfried Christoph, Professor of German, University of Wisconsin-Parkside

Product Details
ISBN: 9781935978701
ISBN-10: 1935978705
Publisher: West Virginia University Press
Publication Date: May 1st, 2013
Pages: 416
Language: English
Series: WV MEDIEVEAL EUROPEAN STUDIES