Holy Roman Empire: A Very Short Introduction

The Holy Roman Empire was neither holy, Roman, nor an empire, but it had a fascinating thousand-year history. It was founded in 800 and claimed Charlemagne's legacy as protector of the papacy and guardian of the Church. It developed from a feudal monarchy into a legal system that pacified Europe and had a supreme court and regional enforcement system. Its growth and history were shaped by major European developments, and its sense of a common history has shaped the history of German-speaking Europe ever since.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 26 July 2018
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Voltaire's famous description of the Holy Roman Empire as "neither holy, nor Roman, nor an empire" serves as a stark reminder of its perceived worthlessness. German historians have traditionally held a negative view of the empire, attributing its existence to the impediment of German unification. However, since 1945, scholars have adopted a more positive stance, although the historical understanding and significance of the empire remain largely misunderstood.

In this concise introduction, Joachim Whaley offers a captivating overview of the Holy Roman Empire's thousand-year history. Established in 800 upon the foundation of Charlemagne's Frankish kingdom, the empire's imperial title was bestowed upon the German monarchy, which emerged in the ninth and tenth centuries. The German monarchy claimed the legacy of Charlemagne, including his role as protector of the papacy and guardian of the Church. Around 1500, the title "Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation" was adopted. The empire evolved from a feudal monarchy into a legal system that brought peace to the territories and cities of German-speaking Europe. By 1519, it had established a supreme court and a regional enforcement system, effectively ending feudal conflicts. Throughout its existence, the empire's growth and history were intricately intertwined with major European events, including the Reformation, the Thirty Years War, and the French revolutionary wars. These events ultimately led to Napoleon's destruction of the empire in 1806.

The sense of a shared history spanning over a thousand years and the legal traditions established by the empire have left a lasting impact on the history of German-speaking Europe. Joachim Whaley delves into the empire's crucial impact and role in the history of European power and politics, highlighting its enduring legacy. He demonstrates that the Holy Roman Empire stands as one of the most durable political systems in German history.

The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press boasts an extensive collection of titles covering a wide range of subjects. This introduction provides a valuable entry point into the rich history and significance of the Holy Roman Empire, offering a concise yet comprehensive overview for those seeking to understand this fascinating historical entity.

Weight: 158g
Dimension: 110 x 173 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198748762