Life of Charlemagne Podcast By Thomas Hodgkin cover art

Life of Charlemagne

Life of Charlemagne

By: Thomas Hodgkin
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Charlemagne (Charles the Great) c. 742-814 was King of the Franks, conqueror of Lombard Italy, and on Christmas day 800, was crowned by Pope Leo III as the first Holy Roman Emperor. The author tells us that he "was a man of commanding presence, more than six feet high, with large and lustrous eyes, a rather long nose, a bright and cheerful countenance, and a fine head of hair." Charles was a just ruler, a lover of learning and of women (he married five times). He was a strong supporter of the Church and of the Pope, whose divisive territorial rule in Italy he helped to establish. In this engaging, short biography, the historian Thomas Hodgkin shows how he emerged from his father's Frankish Kingdom on the Rhine to conquer and to govern fierce tribes and to revive for the first time since Rome's fall, the title of Emperor of the West - Summary by Pamela NagamiCopyright Autobiographies Genre Art Literary History & Criticism Spirituality
Episodes
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    Heptameron of the Tales of Margaret, Queen of Navarre, Volume 1-Marguerite of Navarre
    Aug 9 2026
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    5 hrs and 19 mins
  • Warwick the Kingmaker-Charles William Chadwick Oman

    Warwick the Kingmaker-Charles William Chadwick Oman
    Aug 8 2026
    "Warwick the Kingmaker" by Charles William Chadwick Oman delves into the life and influence of Richard Neville, the Earl of Warwick, who played a pivotal role in the tumultuous politics of 15th-century England. Known for his ambition and strategic prowess, Warwick's actions shaped the course of the Wars of the Roses, making him a figure of both admiration and controversy. This exploration of power, loyalty, and betrayal offers timeless insights into the nature of leadership and the complexities of human ambition. Hearing this narrative today resonates with our ongoing struggles for influence and the moral dilemmas faced by those in power, making it a relevant and thought-provoking listen for contemporary audiences.
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    7 hrs and 8 mins
  • Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Aurelius Antoninus-Marcus Aurelius

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    Aug 7 2026
    Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Aurelius Antoninus-Marcus Aurelius offers profound insights into the mind of one of history's greatest leaders. This collection of personal writings reflects Aurelius's thoughts on philosophy, duty, and the nature of existence, providing timeless wisdom that encourages self-reflection and resilience. The themes of inner strength, virtue, and the importance of rational thought resonate deeply in today's fast-paced world, making this work not only a historical artifact but also a guide for modern living. Aurelius's meditations invite listeners to contemplate their own lives, fostering a sense of peace and purpose that remains relevant across the ages.
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    4 hrs and 48 mins
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