Carolingian Renaissance


Carolingian Renaissance was the period between, ends of 8th Century to the 9th Century. Carolingian rulers Charlemagne and Louis the Pious brought many unique activities during this period of their rule. Carolingian Renaissance is considered to the period of logical and cultural restoration. This period led to increase in many fields such as literature, writing, the arts, architecture, jurisprudence, liturgical and scriptural studies.
Development of language named as Medieval Latin and Carolingian minuscule occurred which provided common language for writing skills. This language allowed communication across many European countries. This period is known for restoring aspects of Roman Empire.

Carolingian Renaissance Was a Significant Period

  • Northern Europe was holder of classical Mediterranean Roman art forms. In the west, Gothic art was common.
  • During this period many illuminated manuscripts, metalwork, small-scale sculpture, mosaics many in light.
  • Charlemagne supported Carolingian architecture as the style of Northern Europe.
There was steady tradition in western culture. Earlier written records of Sumerians were passed to Greece and Rome. German migrates during 400s AD brought break in this tradition. Some of the part of Western Europe did not understand the Greek language and thus the written theory of Boethius became the foundation for learning during this period.
Carolingian Renaissance music
Charlemagne was interested in music and thus during this period, music theory was written and copied which was an intense activity in the monasteries.
  • Musica enchiriadis was one of the earliest and significant music theories.
  • Charlemagne wanted to combine the practice of church music by eradicating difference of regional styles.
  • Earliest Western musical notation was created at 800 hertz as a result of Charlemagne’s desire. This notation comprised of performance tone of Roman singers.
Problems that occurred in Europe due to illiteracy
Carolingian rulers faced the problem due to lack of literate persons in Western Europe during 8th century. Thus there was only limited number of people who could serve as court scribes.
Even all the parish priests were unable to read the Vulgate Bible. There was the problem that scholars from one part of Europe were unable to communicate with the person from other part of Europe.
Thus many changes in writing language were brought in Carolingian Renaissance period.

Carolingian Renaissance
Carolingian Renaissance

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