King and Emperor

This biography by Janet L. Nelson provides a comprehensive and detailed account of Charlemagne's life, focusing on his personality, motivations, and the historical context of his reign.

Nelson draws heavily from primary sources, including charters, poetry, architecture, numismatics, and epigraphy, to reconstruct Charlemagne's life from birth to death.

The book explores his family dynamics, political exploits, and the complexities of his character, presenting a nuanced view of Charlemagne as a warrior, a patron of intellectuals, and a devout Christian.

Nelson's work is notable for its chronological structure and its attempt to capture the 'real Charlemagne' beyond the legends and myths that have developed around him.