Printed Page 236-0(cont.)
A History of Western Society: Printed Page 236
PRIMARY SOURCE 8.3
Charlemagne and His Wife
This illumination from a ninth-century manuscript portrays Charlemagne with one of his wives. Marriage was an important tool of diplomacy for Charlemagne, and he had a number of wives and concubines.
(Erich Lessing/Art Resource, NY)
EVALUATE THE EVIDENCE
Question
What does Charlemagne appear to be doing? How would you characterize his wife’s reaction?
Question
Does this depiction of a Frankish queen match what you’ve read about Frankish queens? On what accomplishments did a queen’s status rest?