Description
Unlike his contemporary Lampert of Hersfeld, Bruno was closely connected to the foremost leaders of the Saxon resistance against King Henry IV, and provides unique insights regarding their plans, hopes, and fears. Bruno also provides nearly two dozen full-text copies of letters that were sent by the main participants in the intra-German conflict as well as ten letters from Pope Gregory VII, four of which do not appear in any other source including the papal register.
An additional important feature of Bruno's history is that he treats military matters in an extraordinarily detailed manner, and is the most important narrative source for understanding the conduct of war during the second half of the eleventh century. Bruno's detailed treatment of military matters is based upon his very extensive contacts with leading military figures, as well as his own personal observations regarding the numerous battles that punctuated the struggle between the Saxons and their erstwhile ruler.
In sum, Bruno offers both unique perspectives and unique information about a crucial period in both German and European history, which make this text valuable not only for scholars, but also for a broader audience interested in the political, religious, and particularly military history of the eleventh century. This will be the first English translation of this work.
About the Author
Bernard Bachrach is professor emeritus of history at the University of Minnesota.
David Bachrach is professor of medieval history at the University of New Hampshire. They are the translators of Widukind of Corvey's Deeds of the Saxons (CUA Press).
Book Information
ISBN 9780813234953
Author Bruno of Merseburg
Format Paperback
Page Count 232
Imprint The Catholic University of America Press
Publisher The Catholic University of America Press
Weight(grams) 141g