In "Life of Charlemagne" by Thomas Hodgkin, readers are given a detailed account of the achievements and legacy of one of history's most influential leaders, Charlemagne. Hodgkin expertly weaves together historical facts and anecdotes to paint a vivid picture of the man behind the title of Holy Roman Emperor.

One of the standout features of this book is Hodgkin's ability to bring Charlemagne to life as a multifaceted character. He is portrayed as a brilliant military strategist, a devout Christian, and a wise ruler who ushered in a period of cultural and intellectual flourishing known as the Carolingian Renaissance.

Hodgkin's writing is engaging and accessible, making this biography a compelling read for both history buffs and casual readers. The author's passion for the subject matter is evident in every page, and his thorough research adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.

Overall, "Life of Charlemagne" is a captivating biography that sheds new light on a historical figure who continues to captivate our imaginations centuries after his death. Hodgkin's insightful analysis and engaging storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the life and times of Charlemagne.

Book Description:
Charlemagne 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 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 Nagami